Electroscope Detects Static Electricity By HAROLD P. STRAND
A PIECE of gold foil installed in
a discarded light bulb makes an inexpensive demonstration electroscope that will detect very tiny electrical charges. All parts ex- cept the gold leaves can be found in the ordinary scrap box. Gold leaf When a charged object such as this plastic rod rubbed with silk approaches the brass disc, the gold leaves separate, because costs few cents at any sign painter's like charges repel. The amount of separation is proportional to supply house. the charge. Obtain a 150-watt clear lamp bulb, a size often used in stores and offices. Pry off the brass disc at the end of the base with diagonal pliers. Then use long nose pliers to break away the tapered glass at the end of the lamp seal which gives access to the filament support inside. Be SURE to wear safety glasses. Tap lightly with a metal rod and mallet to break the glass filament supports. Then smooth up the edges of the lamp base with pliers or reamer. Make the base by cutting a Tap lightly against a metat rod to break out the filament 7/8-in. recess in a 3-1/2 -in. dia. support. disc of black plastic or wood, and cement the bulb in place with epoxy or the metal filler available in auto body shops. Clean the inside of the bulb and add a small quantity of silica gel which helps to absorb mois- ture and prevent leakage of static electricity. Make the gold leaf support of a brass rod, and fit into a rubber stopper. A turn of plastic tape will give you a tight fit. Solder the brass disc to the top of the rod. The gold leaf is very fragile. Use sharp scissors to cut a piece 5/16x1-3/4in. Put a drop of Pliobond cement on the top of the bent rod, and carefully install the leaf. You must do it right the first time since the leaf cannot be shifted once it is placed. Carefully lower the rod into the lamp bulb, and your electroscope is ready for use. OCTOBER, 1962 105