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Kirlian plasma globe
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Kirlian plasma globe
Close up of a Kirlian plasma globe, a type of electrical discharge tube sold as an executive toy. The central wand is kept at a high electrical potential, so that a large electric field exists across the rarified gas within the glass sphere. When the outside of the sphere is touched (changing the local electrical potential) streams of charged particles flow across the gas, ionising it and causing shifting, glowing patterns. The effect was discovered by the physicist Nikola Tesla and and is used in Kirlian photography; it is known as the Tesla or Kirlian effect
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This print showcases a mesmerizing close-up of a Kirlian plasma globe, an extraordinary electrical discharge tube that has gained popularity as an executive toy. The focal point of this image is the central wand, which is maintained at a high electrical potential, creating a substantial electric field across the rarified gas enclosed within the glass sphere. Upon touching the outer surface of the sphere and altering its local electrical potential, streams of charged particles surge through the gas, causing it to ionize and giving rise to enchanting patterns that shift and glow. This remarkable phenomenon, known as the Tesla or Kirlian effect, was first discovered by renowned physicist Nikola Tesla himself. The Kirlian effect has found practical application in photography through what is now referred to as Kirlian photography. By harnessing this technique, photographers are able to capture ethereal images that showcase luminous outlines surrounding objects when subjected to high-voltage electricity. Science Photo Library presents this striking visual representation not only as an artistic marvel but also as a testament to scientific ingenuity. With its fusion of science and technology, this photograph serves as a reminder of humanity's endless curiosity and our ability to uncover hidden wonders within nature's mysteries.
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