======Van de Graaff Sparks======


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**Materials: **{{$demo.materials_description}}\\
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**Safety: **{{$demo.safety_description}}\\
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**Alternative titles:** Mini Lightning with a Van de Graaff
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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  - Set up the Van de Graaff generator and grounding rod as shown in the demonstration setup.  
  - Switch on the generator to begin building charge on the dome.  
  - Slowly bring the grounded rod near the dome, keeping it slightly to one side for best results.  
  - Observe sparks (mini lightning bolts) jumping between the dome and rod.  
  - Move the rod around the dome to show sparks from different points.  
  - When finished, turn off the generator and discharge any remaining charge by touching the dome with the grounding rod.  




====Links==== 
Van de Graaf Sparks - SMUPhysics: 
{{youtube>aM0f-3RL3FQ?}}\\

📄 Van de Graaff Sparks - Classroom Physics Demos: [[https://demos.smu.ca/demos/e-n-m/50-van-de-graaf-sparks]]\\


====Variations====
  * Use a larger dome or stack a smaller dome on top of a bigger Van de Graaff for larger sparks.  
  * Place an electroscope inside a plastic tube on the dome to visualize charge.  
  * Demonstrate hair-raising static effects by letting a student place their hand on the dome (with proper supervision and safety measures).  
  * Use fluorescent bulbs or other objects to show additional effects of static discharge.



====Safety Precautions====
  * Always use the grounding rod to touch or discharge the dome—never touch with bare hands.  
  * Ensure good insulation between the machine and the ground for maximum effect.  
  * Perform only in dry air conditions to avoid weak discharges.  
  * Do not use near sensitive electronic devices.  
  * Warn participants that sparks may be startling and produce loud cracking sounds.




====Questions to Consider====
  * How is the spark from a Van de Graaff generator similar to lightning?  
  * What causes the cracking sound when a spark occurs?  
  * Why does dry air make the sparks more visible?  
  * What role does the moving belt play in building up charge on the dome?  
  * How does this demonstration illustrate the concepts of induction, discharge, and static electricity?