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Guericke experimenting with electricity
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Guericke experimenting with electricity
Otto von Guericke (1602-1686), German physicist, operating the first static electricity generator. His generator consisted of a large ball of sulphur (yellow). When the ball was rotated and a pad rubbed against it, sparks were observed. This device was constructed in 1663. In the background (upper right) is a vacuum sphere. In an experiment unrelated to his work on electrostatics, von Guericke designed two brass hemispheres and evacuated the air from them. The hemispheres, which were held together only by external air pressure, then held a large amount of weights (seen below the hemispheres). Illustration from Physique Populaire (1891), by E. Desbeaux
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Media ID 6415277
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1600s 17th Century Air Pressure Analysing Device Electricity Electrostatics Generating Generator German Hemispheres Operating Physicist Researching Scientist Sixties Sphere Static Studying Sulphur Vacuum Laboratory Otto Von Guericke Physical
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This print captures the brilliant mind of Otto von Guericke, a renowned German physicist from the 17th century. In this historical artwork, we witness von Guericke operating the very first static electricity generator he constructed in 1663. The centerpiece of his invention is an impressive large ball of vibrant yellow sulphur, which when rotated and rubbed with a pad, emits mesmerizing sparks. Intriguingly, in the upper right corner of the image, we catch a glimpse of another fascinating device - a vacuum sphere. Although unrelated to his work on electrostatics, von Guericke's curiosity led him to design two brass hemispheres that were evacuated of air. Astonishingly held together solely by external air pressure, these hemispheres effortlessly support an array of weights beneath them. The illustration itself is derived from "Physique Populaire" a publication by E. Desbeaux dating back to 1891. It beautifully portrays von Guericke engrossed in his scientific exploration within his laboratory setting. Otto von Guericke's contributions to physics are immeasurable and continue to inspire generations today. This extraordinary snapshot offers us a glimpse into history as we witness this pioneering scientist meticulously studying and analyzing various physical phenomena while pushing boundaries with innovative equipment and groundbreaking experiments.
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