- #1
Quentief
- 3
- 0
Hi everyone
I have read this article about the arc converter, also known as the Poulcen arc.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arc_converter
It was apparently one of the first electric oscillators. Apparently, an electric arc was produced between two electrodes to put in resonance a RLC circuit, which makes an high frequency electric signal. I note this is exactly the same circuit that Mr Nikolas Tesla used to design his Tesla coil. However, it is claimed that the Poulcen Arc was able to be powered on 50 volts, but the question is how ? I mean, the air has a great breakdown voltage (3600 V/mm), so how an electric arc could be drawn with oy 50 volts ? Even those who build Tesla coils needs to increase the voltage at some kilovolt to power their setup.
Please, could you tell me what I misunderstood ?
Thanks in advance
I have read this article about the arc converter, also known as the Poulcen arc.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arc_converter
It was apparently one of the first electric oscillators. Apparently, an electric arc was produced between two electrodes to put in resonance a RLC circuit, which makes an high frequency electric signal. I note this is exactly the same circuit that Mr Nikolas Tesla used to design his Tesla coil. However, it is claimed that the Poulcen Arc was able to be powered on 50 volts, but the question is how ? I mean, the air has a great breakdown voltage (3600 V/mm), so how an electric arc could be drawn with oy 50 volts ? Even those who build Tesla coils needs to increase the voltage at some kilovolt to power their setup.
Please, could you tell me what I misunderstood ?
Thanks in advance