Discharge a 1000V capacitor with an impressive 'bang!' Classes Used: Phys 100, 102, 108

Discharge a 1000V capacitor with an impressive 'bang!'.

Big bang demo, discharge poles

Attach capacitor leads to power source. Once charged to 1000V (it takes around a minute for the needle to start moving), use the wooded end of the discharge stick to remove one of the clamps from the lead. At this point switch the power supply off and then remove the other clamp in the same manner. Now using the metal end of the stick, touch it to one of the leads, keeping contact while you lower it onto the other lead.

Connect the leads repeatedly until there is no more sparking before touching any of the apparatus. Capacitor must be stored with leads connected to avoid shocks.

Please GET ASSISTANCE from demo room staff if you have not operated this demo before. It requires high voltages and can be dangerous if not done correctly. Please wear ear and eye protection. Updated on 05/30/13