5D40.10 • Conduction in Gases: Jacob’s Ladder

Location: Floor Demo

Instructions / Notes:

• This is a step up transformer. CAUTION: LETHAL VOLTAGE.
• Note: This demo does not perform well in a humid environment.
• Note: The copper wires have already been sanded by demo staff.
• Turn on the power and the discharge will travel up the wires.
• The distance between the wires is the critical adjustment, so the wires should NOT be moving when the demo is turned on.
• For safety purposes, unplug the demo when it is not in use.

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

Last updated on June 8, 2026