Electroscope

Function: Detects electric charge presence and polarity.

Key Components:

• Metal knob (top terminal)
• Metal rod (conductor)
• Gold or aluminum leaves (inside sealed glass)
• Grounding connection (optional)

Working Principle:
When charged object touches the knob, charge flows through rod to leaves. Like charges repel, causing leaves to diverge. Degree of divergence indicates charge magnitude.

Applications:

• Qualitative charge detection
• Teaching electrostatics
• Simple radiation detectors (as ionization chamber)

Note: Sensitive to humidity; best operated in dry conditions.