Videos: Watch this Demo Instructors Video
Description: Polarize a metal soda can with a charged rod.
Equipment:
- Metal soda can
- Rods and Fur
- Long flat surface
Demonstration Procedure:
- Bring a neutral rod near the neutral soda can and note that nothing happens.
- Charge up the rod using the fur and bring it close to the soda can.
- The can will begin to roll toward the rod due to polarization (much like the pith ball demo).
- You may use a different rod and fur and ask students what will happen now. Some will say it will push the can away (misconception).
Note: As with most electrostatic demonstrations, this works best under 50% humidity.
28-D2
