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In support of all the students who are displaced from school due to the Corona virus. Access to physics zone and chemistry zone lessons are now available free of charge. This will be maintained at least through August 1st 2020. Learn and be well.

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Van de Graaff Generator

The Van de Graaff generator is a device capable of creating a huge electrostatic charge.  It does this using only a rubber belt, two rollers and a metal sphere. animation of Van de Graaff Roller charging the belt The electric motor is optional. 

Explanation of the belt and roller working together to charge the belt.

Explanation of the charge being deposited on the upper sphere.

The Theater of Electricity is an online exhibit put on by the Massachusetts Museum of Science.   They have some incredible pictures and movies of their gigantic Van de Graaff generators in use.  They also have a history of the Van de Graaff that is worth seeing.