Electroscope: meaning, definitions and examples
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electroscope
[ ɪˌlɛk.trəˈskoʊp ]
scientific instrument
An electroscope is an instrument used to detect electric charge. It operates on the principle that like charges repel and opposite charges attract. Typically, it consists of a metal rod connected to two thin metal leaves, which diverge when the rod is charged. Electroscopes can indicate the presence of a charge and its polarity, but they do not provide a quantitative measurement. This device is fundamental in studying electric phenomena and understanding static electricity.
Synonyms
charge detector, electrical detector
Examples of usage
- The electroscope indicated a positive charge.
- He used the electroscope to demonstrate static electricity.
- The leaves of the electroscope moved apart when charged.
- In experiments, the electroscope helped visualize charge distribution.
Translations
Translations of the word "electroscope" in other languages:
🇵🇹 eletroscopio
🇮🇳 इलेक्ट्रोस्कोप
🇩🇪 Elektroskop
🇮🇩 elektroskop
🇺🇦 електроскоп
🇵🇱 elektroskop
🇯🇵 エレクトロスコープ
🇫🇷 électroscope
🇪🇸 electroscopio
🇹🇷 elektroskop
🇰🇷 전기계
🇸🇦 الكهرباء
🇨🇿 elektroskop
🇸🇰 elektroskop
🇨🇳 电学仪器
🇸🇮 elektroskop
🇮🇸 rafmagnsmælir
🇰🇿 электроскоп
🇬🇪 ელექტროსკოპი
🇦🇿 elektroskop
🇲🇽 electroscopio
Etymology
The term 'electroscope' originates from the Greek words 'electro-', meaning 'amber' (which was associated with electricity since ancient times), and 'scope', meaning 'to look' or 'to view'. The device was developed in the late 17th century, during a period of intense scientific inquiry into electricity and its properties. Early inventors, such as Pieter van Musschenbroek in 1745, contributed to its design. The concept of using a movable conductor to detect charge was revolutionary for its time. As understanding of electrostatics advanced, the electroscope became a standard tool in teaching and demonstrating electrical principles. Today, it remains a valuable educational instrument in physics laboratories and classrooms.