Physics 122 Instructor Exam #1
Closed Book Exam. You must show your work to
receive credit.
1. Describe construction details for (a) a Van de Graaff generator (b)
Wimshurst electrostatic generator and (c) Tesla coil. In particular, note
conducting and non-conducting parts as well as components that must be
isolated/connected from/to each other and from/to ground.
2. Describe, in basic terms, the theory underlying the function of each
device from problem #1.
3. Relate physical properties of devices in problem #1 to (a) output
current and (b) output voltage.
4. Describe basic precautions necessary when operating devices in problem #1.
5. Briefly describe the design and function of a Faraday cage.
6. Of the three devices mentioned in problem #1, which do you feel is the
best candidate for home constuction and why? (note: consider parts
availability, difficulty of fabrication, and special equipment required for
fabrication.)
7. Imagine you are in Socorro NM, with limited (locally available) raw
materials, and you wish to fabricate a capacitor to store as much potential
energy as possible - (a)how do you proceed? (b) what is the estimated energy
that this capacitor will store?
this is funny. really. you see, some folks and i have already taken
this exam, in the form of uh..."discussion groups," over innumerable pitchers
of Guinness and/or cups of coffee.
guess you had to be there. sleep deprivation and intoxication helps.
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