Plasma globe is a glass globe filled with a mixture of noble gases such as Argon, Xenon, Krypton and Neon. These gases are under low pressure. In addition to gases, there is also a high-voltage electrode in the globe. At the moment when we release the voltage through the electrode, plasma is created in the globe, and we see colourful plasma filaments that „erupt“ from the central electrode towards the glass. Plasma globes are simplified versions of Tesla coils.
What actually happens? A current that changes directions at an extremely high frequency passes through the electrode, which leads to the release of electrons from the electrode. Since the release of electrons happens in a space with a low pressure, it creates visible electrical discharges.
Plasma is an aggregate state of matter. We can describe it as the most common state of matter in the Universe. Plasma is an aggregate state of matter where the matter is ionised and electrically conductive. Like gas, plasma does not have a definite shape.
Act as a conduit for the electrons:
Turn the plasma globe on. Touch it. What can you see?
Turn on a lamp with the help of plasma:
For this demonstration, you need to darken the room and have someone help you. Turn the plasma globe on. Step on a chair and touch the plasma globe with your hand. Have your assistant hand you a fluorescent rod/lamp and you hold it at the glass part. What can you see?
[ADULT SUPERVISION REQUIRED] Sparks:
You need a darkened room and an assistant for this demonstration. Turn the plasma globe on. Put a coin on its top. Touch the first coin carefully with the second one. What can you see?
