Energy Stored in a Capacitor

Electricity and Magnetism > Capacitance

DCS# 5C30.20

ENERGY STORED IN A CAPACITOR

APPARATUS

high voltage power supply, Harran H72	202-08-E
two 1-μF 4 kV capacitors	202-19-A
electrode apparatus	202-19-A
shorting rod with alligator clip and loop	202-19-A
plastic rod	202-19-A
steel wool	202-02-F3
dpdt switch	214-01-E
100 kΩ resistor	107
plastic rod to operate switch	202-19-A

DESCRIPTION

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

Use the plastic rod to close the switch to fully discharge the capacitor.

NOTES

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