Reference: EM57
Category: Electromagnetism
Purpose: Shows that a capacitor “passes” alternating current but not direct current.
Description: A capacitor is in series with a light bulb (220V 15W). Apply 220V from the rectifier. The bulb does not light up (but the capacitor charges up). Short-circuit the capacitor with a pair of tongs (with an insulating handle) and the bulb immediately lights up. Next apply 220V from the AC mains and the light bulb lights at once, without requiring the application of tongs.
