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THERMAL PROPERTIES OF MATTER

Thermal Expansion

Thermal Conductivity

Electric Sparks and Ionization Effects

A Van de Graaff electrostatic generator is used with a grounded, pear-shaped conductor to demonstrate the concept of electrical breakdown of air. When the potential gradient exceeds a certain limit, the insulating character of air breaks down, and the air becomes conducting. With the Van de Graaff charged to a fixed potential relative to the conductor, the potential gradient is large for the surface of the electrode with the smaller radius of curvature, so sparks can be produced between the Van de Graaff and the conductor at a greater distance when the end with the smaller radius of the curvature is directed toward the Van de Graaff.

Electric Sparks and Ionization Effects