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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