Electroscope Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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electroscope

[ɪˌlɛk.trəˈskoʊp ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

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

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Interesting Facts

History

  • The first basic electroscope was invented in the late 1600s by British scientist Robert Hooke.
  • In 1787, Italian scientist Alessandro Volta designed a more advanced version using gold leaves to measure electric charge.

Science

  • Electroscopes can demonstrate both positive and negative charges – when the device is charged, its metal leaves repel each other.
  • Different types of electroscopes use different materials, such as gold leaf, to react to the presence of electricity.

Pop Culture

  • Electroscopes often make appearances in science demonstrations, highlighting the excitement of experiments with static electricity.
  • In movies and television shows featuring scientists, electroscopes are sometimes used as props to show off fun experiments.

Education

  • Electroscopes are commonly used in classrooms to teach students about electric charge and conductive materials.
  • Performing simple experiments with an electroscope helps foster a deeper understanding of physics concepts in a hands-on manner.

Origin of 'electroscope'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originates from the combination of 'electro,' relating to electricity, and 'scope,' meaning to look or see.
  • Coined in the early 19th century, the word reflects the growing understanding of electrical phenomena during that time.

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.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,059 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.