Simple TC questions

["Tesla list" <tesla-at-pupman-dot-com>]

Original poster: "Hydrogen18" <hydrogen18-at-hydrogen18-dot-com> 

I'm wanting to build my first coil, and I have a few questions.  First of 
all, I understand the principles of a transformer, but is it true tesla 
coils voltage gain is based on the capacitive reacteance of the main 
capacitor and toroid? If so why is such a high turn ratio transformer? 
Next, can I power my with a pulsed 10 kilavolt dc supply(MOT,ballasted with 
1500W heater element) ran through a voltage quadrupler)? Next, I have 
noticed 2 arrangements for the tank capacitor, one way is with the "tank" 
capacitor in series with the spark gap and another is with the tank 
capacitor in paralell with the tank capacitor. I dont understand this at 
all, can some1 explain it better? Finally, I've decided on a 2 inch 
secondary, 12 gauge primary, single static spark gap, and a saltwater 
capacitor(scrounged up tons of glass bottles). The toroid is still under 
consideration. Did I miss anything and thanks for any help you can give me 
concerning my questions?

---Eric "Hydrogen18" http://www.hydrogen18-dot-com/