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Re: Elementary Lecture



"   This question is not adversarial. I simply do not know for sure: Do
Van De
Graff Generators produce open air discharges? I've only witnessed their
operation
a few times, and they were modest devices, except for possibly some dim
recollections of high power versions seen in films.
   If memory serves, they only produce discharges that terminate at a
grounded or
non grounded object.

   BTW, the discussion my original question produced has been very
interesting and
educational.
Dave H."

	Indeed they do (produce open air discharges).  Even with a small
generator you can usually see corona coming from dust particles or other
sharp points on the upper terminal.  In order to get a VDG to reach
maximum capabilities, you have to be very careful to keep the terminal
free of dust, which will collect as it runs.

Ed