Energy Stored in a Capacitor

Electricity and Magnetism > Capacitance

DCS# 5C30.20

ENERGY STORED IN A CAPACITOR

APPARATUS

high voltage power supply, Harran H72	105-16-B-8
2 1-uF 4 kV capacitors	105-22-A
electrode apparatus	105-22-A
shorting rod with alligator clip and loop	105-22-A
steel wool	105A
dpdt switch	105-52-E
100 k resistor	203

DESCRIPTION

Use power supply to charge capacitors to 2000 volts. After capacitors are charged, open switch and turn off power supply. Use insulated rod to insert steel wool between electrodes. It goes bang.

Close switch to fully discharge capacitor.

NOTES

Set up circuit as shown:

Put a small piece of steel wool in the alligator clip on the rod.