The Most Economical Way to Perform the Millikan Experiment

The Most Economical Way to Perform the Millikan ExperimentOur apparatus utilizes specially designed latex spheres, instead of oil, for an easier and safer way to introduce your students to the Millikan experiment. The apparatus is:• Safer—because the spheres don’t require the use of radioactive sources• Easier—because the consistent size and reliable changes of droplets limits the calculations required in the experiment.The apparatus consists of a microscope with a diagonal mirror that puts the image upright so the latex spheres appear to fall down rather than up. A vernier control knob provides critical focusing of the light. The apparatus also features a parallel plate chamber, a potentiometer for adjusting voltage on the plates, a polarity reversing switch, and an atomizing system to produce charged latex spheres. We also include a supply of latex spheres solution (sphere diameter: 1.07 microns).