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J2-15. Electrostatic Smoke Precipitator

Purpose

To demonstrate how an electrostatic smoke precipitator works.

Equipment

Van de Graaff generator, electrostatic precipitator chamber, cigarettes and matches, vacuum cleaner and hose, with overhead projector.

Setup Time

5 minutes.

Images

J2-15

Description

A vacuum cleaner sucks smoke from a cigarette into a transparent chamber which is positioned on the overhead projector. When the Van de Graaff voltage is impressed across the side electrodes inside the tube, it causes the smoke particles to become electrostatically charged and the electric field between the two electrodes immediately sweeps the smoke aside, clearing the air.◙

References

Dale Reynard, Using a Model Electrostatic Precipitator, Wilmington Friends School, Wilmington, DE.