The Electron

Chances are your school does not have an electron microscope. These pieces of equipment are extremely expensive. If this is the case, how can you prove that electrons exist? There is one way that you can complete this at home or in your school sink with a few basic supplies. In this Warm-Up, you will use everyday items to test for the presence of electrons.

Equipment and Materials

• A sink
• A small plastic comb or ruler
• A piece of tissue

Procedure

1. Take the comb or ruler and rub it rapidly for a several seconds with the piece of tissue.
2. At the sink, turn on the water slowly to try to get the very smallest continual flow of water from the faucet.
3. Place the comb or water as close to the stream of water as you can, without actually getting it in the water.