Adjustable spark gap, early 19th century.

Made:
1801-1830

Adjustable spark gap, early 19th century. This instrument consists essentially of two brass balls. The lower one is supported on an insulated blue glass pillar; the upper one can be held at the required height above it by a catch. The catch can be released to let the upper ball make contact with the lower one. Either ball could be earthed while the other was charged.

Details

Category:
King George III
Object Number:
1927-1444
Materials:
brass, glass and mahogany
type:
spark gaps
credit:
King's College, London