Why does a VDG generator's run faster when a conducting sphere touches it?

Subject: Why does a VDG generator's run faster when a conducting sphere touches it?

Date: Mon Mar 29 12:29:58 2010
Posted by Timothy
Grade level: 7-9 School: The Westminster Schools
City: Atlanta State/Province: Georgia Country: USA
Area of science: Physics
ID: 1269890998.Ph

Message:


When I was studying a Van de Graaf generator for a physics project, I noticed 
that while the generator was running, the motor sped up whenever I touched a 
grounded conducting sphere to the surface of the generator.  Upon removing the 
conducting sphere, the motor reverted to its previous speed.  Can you explain 
why this is occurring?

Re: Why does a VDG generator's run faster when a conducting sphere touches it?

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