Climbing Arc.

When the current limited power supply in the base is activated, an arc will start at the bottom and climb to the top of the arcing horns. The arc follows the lower resistance path of the ionized air which rises because it has been heated. As the arc plays through the air in the tube, a brownish gas will form. These are oxides of nitrogen. A tube connection is provided so that the air inside the column may be aspirated through water to show the formation of nitrous acid. This illustrates the role of lightning in the fixation of nitrogen.

The clear acrylic column is mounted on the base, yet may be easily removed to clean or adjust the arc horns.

The climbing arc is often referred to as a Jacob's Ladder.

Wabash #GS-411.

Instructions for Climbing Arc