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Re: spark shape observation
From: Greg Leyh [SMTP:lod-at-pacbell-dot-net]
Sent: Thursday, November 13, 1997 4:44 AM
To: Tesla List
Subject: Re: spark shape observation
Malcolm Watts wrote:
> > Previously, I have been using unsmooth forms for my coil (ie. foil
> > covered ball, aluminum ducting). With this setup I get sparks from all
> > the sharp points. A week or so ago, I got a Van De Graff from a friend,
> > with a smooth aluminum sphere. That found its way right to the top of
> > my tesla coil. Now when running, i get a few longer sparks that move
> > all over the sphere. It's really great. Any way I noticed something
> > I've never seen before. Usually, the sparks are very jittery and break
> > apart and are all fragmented. But occasionally, the spark just
> > straigtens right out so that it is one great long one. It just seems to
> > stay in one place and it looks like it is flowing like water or
> > something. Then after up to 6 or so seconds, it breaks off into what
> > I'd say is normal operation. This seems very strange and intersting to
> > me. Has anyone else ever noticed this? I've never read anything on
> > this adn was wondering if someone could possibly explain it to me. It
> > seems to me like it could be something important.
> > -kevin
>
> Yes. I can consistently do this using a spherical terminal.
How would you compare the spark quality from a sphere and a toroid of
the
same C? Or is it like comparing oranges and pumpkins?
-GL