PURPOSE: Demonstrate that a spark contains radio frequency waves.
DESCRIPTION: Turn the radio on to a frequency where there is no station. Hold the battery near the radio and short it out by quickly contacting and releasing the contact using a banana wire cable. A clicking sound will readily be heard on the radio.
Click your mouse on the photograph above to see an mpeg video of the action.
SUGGESTIONS: This is similar to what Hertz did when he "discovered" radio waves. See Question of the Week #185 for suggestions on using this demonstration to enhance class involvement.
REFERENCES: (PIRA unknown)
EQUIPMENT:
SETUP TIME: None
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