Economy Millikan Apparatus

The Economy Millikan Apparatus is a great tool for measuring the elementary charge and demonstrating the quantization of charge. A high intensity LED illuminates latex spheres as they move under the influence of gravity, a constant electric field, and air resistance. Use your existing power supply and multimeter to make the experiment more affordable. If you need a power supply, the Complete Millikan Apparatus is a more economical alternative.

Charging an oil droplet is a difficult task for most students. Latex spheres are a good alternative since they are easier to use and charge.

A microscope, potentiometer for adjusting voltage, parallel plate, focusing light, reversing switch, and an atomizing sphere are contained in a single housing. A vernier control knob allows critical focusing of the light and a special mirror arrangement makes the spheres appear to fall down rather than up.

Required Accessories

• 6-6.3 VAC power supply for the light source
• a 200-500 VDC power source
• High impedance 0-500 VDC Voltmeter.