5A22.10 • Electroscopic Meters: Electroscope

Location: Cabinet 1

Photo of Demonstration Used at the University of Texas at Austin.

Instructions / Notes:

• Touch the top aluminum plate on the electroscope with a finger to discharge.
• Electroscope may be used to show the effects of nearby electric field by bringing a charged PVC rod very near to the top plate - before moving the rod away. Very near is about 3" inches from the top plate of the electroscope.
• To show conduction - place the charged PVC rod in direct contact with the top plate of the electroscope.
• To show an induced charge - place a finger on the bottom of the electroscope, as seen below. Then bring a charged PVC rod near the top plate of the electroscope. Before moving the charged PVC rod away from the electroscope , remove your finger from the bottom of the electrode.
• Note: This demo uses static surface charges - which require very dry air conditions for it to work effectively.
• If the air in the classroom is too humid - then the surface charges will bleed away rather quickly.

The 4 minute video below is intended for staff use.

Last updated on June 5, 2026