PURPOSE: To demonstrate that the voltage across a capacitor is proportional to the plate separation.

DESCRIPTION: The parallel plate capacitor is charged to 1000 Volts using a low-current DC power supply by pressing a switch. The plates may then be separated and the voltage observed using the electrometer, demonstrating that the voltage is proportional to the plate separation. Click your mouse on the photograph above to see the action.

SUGGESTIONS:

See Question of the Week #125 for information on using this demonstration to enhance class involvement.

REFERENCES: (PIRA 5C10.20)

EQUIPMENT: Parallel plate capacitor assembly with electrometer as photographed.

SETUP TIME: None.