why does jacobs ladder arc and a high voltage arc appear to look different?
2006-10-31 09:46:09 · 5 answers · asked by csnape2003 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
A Jacob's Ladder is a device to produce a moving high-voltage arc. It consists of two conductors in the form of a V with the bottom tip cut off (sort of \ / ). A high voltage is applied between the two conductors, which is just high enough to for an arc to form at the bottom (where the two conductors are closest), but not (initially) at a higher point. But the heat of the arc quickly forms hotter, less dense air just above the arc, and that region has a lower resistance, so the arc moves upward. If everything is set up correctly, the arc will rise so fast that it can't keep the surrounding air hot enough, so it goes out. Then a new arc forms at the bottom, and the process repeats.
2006-10-31 11:56:55 · answer #1 · answered by Grouchy Dude 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A Jacob's Ladder arc IS a high-voltage arc.
Arc appearance depends on the voltage (and thus the length possible), the current flowing, whether it is DC or AC (and if AC, what frequency), the local atmosphere and its motion, presence of any magnetic fields, and indeed the shape of the conductors.
All of these factors will cause differences in the appearance of both an arc declared to be a Jacob's Ladder, and one not so declared.
2006-10-31 10:10:04 · answer #2 · answered by Nicky 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the basic difference between the two is the Jacob's ladder, is a climbing arc it starts at the shortest distance and works its way towards the wider gap between terminals( usually a Jacob's ladder is in a V shape) a normal HV arc merely bridges the distance between the two terminals and stays fairly constant. Basically the momentum is two fold with a climbing arc (Jacob's ladder) not only across but it is forced up until it reaches the furthest point when the first arc dissipates, and a new arc is created at the base of the terminals. (if that makes sense) hope it helps.
2006-11-05 12:27:21 · answer #3 · answered by gameface_angel 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hold on what are we talking about here Jacob's Ladder is a natural phenomena a high voltage arc is not. Or not in the way you understand
2006-11-04 07:21:52 · answer #4 · answered by FlyingPm 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Something to do with the shape of the conductors? (Bit of a guess)
2006-10-31 09:49:26 · answer #5 · answered by migdalski 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋