A Van de Graaff generator is a device designed to create static electricity and make it available for experimentation. There are two kinds of generators; one that uses a high-voltage power supply for charging and one that uses belts and rollers for charging. The Van de Graaff generators available through MEEC are made up of:

A motor; two rollers; a belt; two brush assemblies; and an output terminal (usually a metal or aluminum sphere).

When the motor is turned on, the lower roller (charger) begins turning the belt. Since the belt is made of rubber and the lower roller is covered in silicon tape, the lower roller begins to build a negative charge and the belt builds a positive charge. You can understand why this charge imbalance occurs by looking at the triboelectric series: Silicon is more negative than rubber; therefore, the lower roller is capturing electrons from the belt as it passes over the roller.

There is a generator at both the AV Library and the Victorville Library.

This guide explains today’s important energy issues, looks at the future of different forms of energy, and shows us how to keep the world safe while keeping the planet safe.

3 copies at Antelope Valley and 3 copies at Victorville branch.

Grades 3-4

Includes Teacher’s Edition, VHS, and DVD

Project Learning Tree

Curriculum and Kit includes songs on DVD, VHS, and books

Thomas Edison and the Electric Light: 30 min

All About Electricity: 30 min

DVD

By: Paul Gipe

Includes detailed info on planning, purchasing, siting, and installing a wind system.

1999

121 pages

Grades 6-12

An illustrative guide to energy including history, electricity, renewable resources, health, and policy management.

By: Jim Augustyn

Mixing cat wisdom with science and solar politics.

2003

88 pages

Copy available at both Antelope Valley and Victor Valley branch

By: Pat Patterson

This book posits that we are on the edge of a new technologial age which will totally change the way we power our homes, cars, and computers.

2004

70 pages

By: Rex A. Ewing

Renewable energy is demystified and explained in plain English by someone who lives off-the-grid and loves it.

2003

251 pages

by: Josepha Sherman

Learn about this great star at the center of our Solar System and how it powers our world.

2004

32 pages

by Steven Strong

This book discusses system options and economics, stand-alone and utility-interactive systems, description of all key components, and how to design a solar electric house.

1993

271 pages

by: Daniel D. Chiras

This book discusses the vast potential for passive heating and cooling and gives the leaders the necessary tools for successful solar design.

2002

274 pages