Discharge of Electricity through Gases


 
 
Concept Explanation
 

Discharge of Electricity through Gases

Discharge of Electricity through Gases: At normal pressure air or any other gas is a non - conductor of electricity, but at low pressures the gases become conductors of electricity. This can be demonstrated by a device known as the discharge tube. The apparatus consists of a long glass tube. At the two ends of the tube two metal plates are sealed. The plates are called the electrodes.

These electrodes are connected to a high voltage source. The electrode which is connected to the positive terminal of the source is called the anode, while the one connected to the negative terminal is called the cathode. The terms ‘anode’ and ‘cathode’ are used following the convention established by Michael Faraday.

The pressure of the gas inside the tube can be reduced by pumping it out through the opening at P. A number of interesting things happen when a high voltage (say, 10,000 V) is applied across the electrodes of the discharge tube, and the pressure of the gas inside the tube is lowered. 

Sample Questions
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Question : 1

The terms ‘anode’ and ‘cathode’ are used following the convention established by _____________.

Right Option : A
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Question : 2

The electrode which is connected to the positive terminal of the source is called the ___________.

Right Option : C
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Question : 3

Which of the following statement / statements are correct :

(a) The terms ‘anode’ and ‘cathode’ are used following the convention established by Ostwalt.

(b) At the two ends of the tube two plastic plates are sealed. The plates are called the electrodes.

(c) The electrode which is connected to the positive terminal of the source is called the anode.

Right Option : C
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Explanation
 
 
 


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