VAN DE GRAAFF

GENERATOR
It was designed by Van de Graaff in 1931. It is a device used for the production of high potential differences of the order of few million volts. This high potential difference is used to accelerate charged particles such as electrons, protons, ions etc.

Principle-

It is based on the principle of discharging of sharp points and the charge given to a hollow conductor is

transferred to the outer surface and is distributed uniformly over it.

Construction-

The schematic diagram (essential parts) of Van de Graaff generator is shown in figure. S is a large spherical conducting shell fixed over the insulating pillars P1 and P2. A long belt of insulating material like rubber4, silk is wound on the pulleys B1 and B2. B1 is at ground level and B2 is at centre of spherical shell S. The belt moves with the help of motor. C1 and C2 are two sharp pointed metal combs. C1 is called spray comb and C2 is called collecting comb. The positive ions to be accelerated are produced in a discharge tube D. The generator is enclosed in a

steel chamber SC filled with nitrogen or methane at high pressure.

Working-

The spray comb C1 is given a positive charge (approx. 104 volts) with respect to earth by high tension (H.T.) source. Due to discharging action of sharp points, a positively charged electric wind is set up which sprays positive charge on the belt. As the belt moves upwards, a negative charge is induced on the sharp end of collecting comb C2 and an equal positive charge is induced on the farther end of C2. The positive charge immediately shifts to the outer surface of S. Due to discharging action of sharp points, a negatively charged electric wind set up. This neutralizes the positive

charge on the belt and the uncharged belt returns and again collects the charge from C1 which is again collected by C2 and so on. Thus the positive charge on S goes on increasing and hence the potential of spherical shell goes on increasing and hence accelerates the ions. In order to protect the leakage of charge, the generator is fitted inside a steel chamber filled with nitrogen or methane at high pressure. If V is the potential difference developed across the ends iof the discharge tube then the energy acquired by the ionbs having charge q is equal to qv.

PHYSICS DEMONSTRATION FILE

Submitted By:- Kshitiz Jain Class:- XII Roll No. :Submitted To:- Mr. Neeraj Sir School:- D.A.V. Public School Date of submission: Teachers Signature

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I wish to offer my sincere thanks to Mr. Neeraj Sir who gave guidance valuable suggestions and constant encouragement for completion of this activity file. He made me understand to learn the important terms and points of this demonstration file that were impossible otherwise. I also pay my regards to my respected principal mam Ms. Renu Sharma for providing me all possible help needed for the purposes.