7D30.70 Cyclotron
Description
Video: Watch this demo
Description: This demonstration mimics the motion of a particle in a magnetic cyclotron.
Equipment:
- Cyclotron model
- Wimshurst Machine
- Cables
- Metallic balls (ping pong balls wrapped with aluminum tape/foil)
Procedure:
- Attach opposite terminals of the Wimshurst machine to the continuous metallic strip and the non continuous strips.
- Place conducting ball inside of the model.
- Set up camera such that the whole class can observe.
- Begin cranking the Wimhurst machine to provide a potential difference to the strips.
- Watch as the ball is accelerates around the bowl, mirroring the effects a magnetic cyclotron.
Concept: Like a real cyclotron, the “particle” is accelerated by the electric field but instead of an alternating current, this is done by a direct current. Due to the opposite charges of the strips, it provides an “alternating” effect as the ball swirls around the bowl. In addition, instead of a magnetic field causing the centripetal force, in the model, it is provided by the normal force of the bowl.
Tips:
- Remember to discharge the equipment before touching any metal parts!!!!!
- If the ball remains stationary, give it a nudge to get it going and the model will do the rest.