The lightning rod functions by providing a path of least resistance to ground. This path conducts excessive current that is generated in the event of a lightning. The lightning rod is part of the lightning protection system components. The rod connects to a thick piece of copper wire which is attached to a conductive underground grid. According to the lighting diversion theory by Franklin, the lightning rod offers protection to structures by providing a path of least resistance to the earth. When a lightning strikes there is a sudden discharge which is drawn to the lightning rod since it’s the highest point on the building or structure. The charge is safely diverted to the earth, thus protecting the structures.
Lorentz force states that a particle of charge q, experiences a force when moving at a velocity v in the presence of both a magnetic field B and an electric field E. This is the basic principle upon which the mass spectrometer works. The mass spectrometer is used to measure both masses and concentration of molecules and atoms. In the mass spectrum atoms are ionized and accelerated to a uniform velocity, after which they are passed through a magnetic field. In conformity with the Lorentz force, the ions are deflected in as they pass through the magnetic field. The magnitude of the deflection is inversely proportional to their masses.
A capacitor an electrical component that is used to store charge which consists of two parallel conductors separated by an insulator (dielectric). A plasma membrane surrounds all cells (including a nerve cell). The extracellular fluid and cytoplasm are both conductive solutions (electrolytes), separated by a dielectric (the plasma membrane).
Works Cited
Adams, Steve, and Nathan Allday. Advanced Physics. Second ed. OUP Oxford, 2013. Print.
"Lightning & Lightning Rods." Smithsonian Institution. Smithsonian Institution, 1 Jan. 2013. Web. 11 Nov. 2014. <http://siarchives.si.edu/history/exhibits/henry/lightning>.
"An Introduction to Electrical Circuits, and Their Use in Physiology." University of Cambridge, 10 May 2013. Web. 11 Nov. 2014. <http://www.humanneurophysiology.com/membranepotentials.htm>.
