PURPOSE: Demonstrate the force on a dielectric in an electric field.

DESCRIPTION: Two wire electrodes extend into a bath of dielectric oil, as seen in the photograph above. When a potential of 2500 volts is impressed between the wires a force is exerted on the dielectric in that region, causing the oil to rise between the two wires, as seen in the close-up photographs below. The setup is rendered visible for larger groups using a point source for shadow projecting, as seen in the photograph.

SUGGESTIONS:

REFERENCES: (PIRA unknown.)

EQUIPMENT: Glass cell (from N3-23) with dielectric oil, wire assembly, power supply, and point source for shadow projection.

SETUP TIME: 10 minutes.