An electroscope is an instrument used to detect electric charge. It consists of a metal rod and a metal foil or a metal ball at the top. When a charged object is brought near the electroscope, the charge is transferred to the metal parts, causing the foil or ball to move apart, indicating the presence of charge.

• Simple electroscope
• Gold leaf electroscope

An electroscope is a simple device designed to detect electric charge. It typically features a metal rod connected to a thin metal foil or a metal ball at the top. When a charged object approaches the electroscope, it influences the charge distribution in the metal components.

How It Works

When the charged object comes close, it either transfers its charge to the electroscope or induces a charge separation within it. This results in the metal foil or ball moving apart, which visually indicates that the electroscope has detected an electric charge.

Types of Electroscopes

• Simple Electroscope: This basic version uses a metal rod and a single piece of foil that diverges when charged.
• Gold Leaf Electroscope: This more sensitive type features two thin gold leaves that spread apart when charge is detected, providing a clearer visual indication.

Both types serve the same fundamental purpose but differ in sensitivity and design, making them useful tools in demonstrating electrical principles.