Can Activated Carbon Powder Fly Using Atmospheric Electric Field?

[NERV]

As it is known to all,the atmospheric electric field does exists.In fact,near the ground its strength is about 100N/m.That's enough for my design.

Let's get some activated carbon powder.I think we can regard them as smooth,conductive balls with density（ρ）=2.7g/cm³,r=1×10^-5m。If we want a can which has been filled with the powder float in the air by balancing the electric force and gravity,we need to charge the powder so that it can hold an amount of electricity.

Here I gave my calculation. I regarded each of these balls as an isolated conductor,which may lead to error.If anyone has some good ideas,please tell me.

C=4πε₀r,F_E=qE=UCE=4πε₀rUE
if a charged ball can fly:
F_E≥mg
∴U≥ρgr²/(3ε₀E)
Substitute ρ=2.7×10³kg/m³,g=10m/s²,r=1×10^-5m,ε₀=8.85×10^-12(C/V.m),E=100N/m,we get

U≥1017V.
This is amazing.If we use U=2034V,we will get one more lifting force(equals the powder's gravity).

 

[russ_watters]

100 N/m is not an electric field strength. The electric field strength is about 100 N/C: http://hypertextbook.com/facts/1998/TreshaEdwards.shtml

 

[charng]

I must say that this idea of using charged activated carbon powder to create lift is intriguing. The concept of using the atmospheric electric field to generate lift is not new, but your approach of using activated carbon powder as conductive balls is unique.

Your calculations seem reasonable and show that it is possible for the powder to generate enough lift to overcome gravity. However, it is important to note that this is a theoretical calculation and there may be other factors that could affect the actual lift generated. It would be beneficial to conduct experiments to validate these calculations and see if the powder can actually fly in this way.

Additionally, it is important to consider the potential risks and safety concerns of using high voltage in this manner. It would be necessary to take precautions to ensure the safety of individuals and the environment.

Overall, I think this is a promising idea and I encourage you to continue exploring it. Perhaps with further research and experimentation, we can find a way to make this concept a reality. Keep up the good work.