PURPOSE: To show how a neon light reacts with a RC Circuit.

DESCRIPTION: A neon lamp is put in parallel with a capacitor in a RC circuit as in the picture above. This circuit is hooked up to a DC Power supply which is turned to about 80 VDC. When the capacitor is charged the neon lamp flashes, partially draining the capacitor and starting the process over again. The period of oscillation is RC dependent and can be varied by changing either the value of the resistance or capacitance. The amount of applied voltage will also effect the period of oscillation.

SUGGESTIONS:

EQUIPMENT: DC Power supply, capacitor board, resistor board, neon light and wires.

SETUP TIME: 50 min..