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High-voltage build

(collab) Turning movement into Music ft. Plasma Channel

Start with the video, then use the science notes and recommended parts below to follow the idea behind the build.

High voltageAudio

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How it works

What this project is testing.

This is a physics-instrument idea: motion becomes a changing electrical signal, and that signal becomes sound.

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With plasma in the mix, the demo also makes ionized air part of the story. Electric fields move charges, and changing energy in the air can become visible light and audible pressure waves.

F = q E

A charged particle in an electric field feels a force.

f_{b e a t} = ∣ f_{1} - f_{2} ∣

If motion shifts one oscillator, the difference between two frequencies can become the musical tone.

Recommended parts

Products used in this project.

Affiliate links may earn Keystone Science a commission. Match ratings, values, sizes, polarity, and safety requirements to your own build before buying.

Theefun Plasma Ball 8 Inch Plasma Globe Lamp

plasma globe / plasma ballhigh voltage

8 Inch Plasma Ball, Touch and Sound Sensitive Plasma Globe Lamp

$34.954.6(3,100)

DEVMO DC 3V-6V to 400kV 400000V Boost Step-up Power Module High-Voltage Generator

high-voltage power supplypower

DEVMO DC 3V-6V to 400kV Boost Step-up High-Voltage Generator Module

$10.994.4(508)

Prefer low-current educational modules over mains-powered high-voltage supplies. Review requirements and safety guidance before buying.

12V 2A Power Supply, AC 120V to DC12V 5.5x2.1mm Jack Converter, 12 Volt LED Driver 24W Adapter Transformer for Strip Lights, Surveillance Cameras, External HDD, Monitor, CCTV (Pack of 1)

transformerpower

12V 2A Power Supply, AC 120V to DC12V 5.5x2.1mm Adapter Transformer

$8.994.5(6,601)

General low-voltage transformer/adapter pick; match voltage/current and connector to the circuit.

EDGELEC 120pcs Breadboard Jumper Wires 20cm Wire Length Optional Dupont Cable Assorted Kit Male to Female Multicolored Ribbon Cables

jumper wires / hookup wirewiring

120pcs Breadboard Jumper Wires, 20cm Dupont Cable Assorted Kit, Male to Female

$6.984.7(4,500)

Ackers High Borosilicate Glass Measuring Cup Set with Pour Spout,60ml(2OZ),120ml(4OZ), 250ml(8OZ) Glass Measuring Beaker for Kitchen or Restaurant, Easy to Read

glassfabrication

Ackers High Borosilicate Glass Measuring Beaker Set with Pour Spout

4.5(3,500)

Project files

Prints, kits, and downloads.

Diagrams, printable files, kits, or companion downloads will appear here when they are ready to use.

Coming soon

Contact

Events, speaking, collaborations, and news.

Send the project name, outlet or audience, timing, location, and the context you want covered.

Email Keystone Science