5A40.50 • Induced Charge: Franklin Bell

Location: Cabinet 1

Photo Shows the Demonstration Apparatus Used by the University of Texas at Austin

Concepts Conveyed:

• Induced charges

Safety:

• When the demo is finished, touch the two electrodes together to discharge any remaining charge before touching any metal.

Instructions / Notes:

• Once the weight is still, crank the Wimshurst machine until the weight begins to oscillate between the two electrodes.

Demo Staff:

• Put the stand next to the Wimshurst machine, and make sure the weight is between the two electrodes.
• The string has a red line to mark the proper height the weight should hang from. If the weight is at the proper height and then positioned equally between the electrodes, the weight should oscillate properly.

Last updated on June 5, 2026