Electrostatic precipitators

Definition

Electrostatic precipitators are devices that remove fine particles, like dust and smoke, from a flowing gas using the force of an induced electrostatic charge. They are commonly used in industrial processes to control air pollution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Electrostatic precipitators operate by charging particles as they pass through an electric field and collecting them on charged plates.
2. The efficiency of an electrostatic precipitator depends on factors such as particle size, gas flow rate, and voltage applied to the electrodes.
3. They consist of discharge electrodes and collecting plates; the former emit electrons that ionize the gas while the latter attract and capture the charged particles.
4. Maintenance of electrostatic precipitators includes periodic cleaning of collecting plates to ensure continued efficiency.
5. These devices utilize Coulomb's law, which describes the force between two charges, to effectively remove particles from gases.

Review Questions

• How do electrostatic precipitators use electric fields to remove particulate matter from gases?
• What factors influence the efficiency of an electrostatic precipitator?
• Explain how Coulomb's law is applied in the functioning of an electrostatic precipitator.

Related terms

Coulomb's Law: A fundamental principle that quantifies the amount of force between two stationary, electrically charged particles.

Electric Field: A field around charged particles that exerts a force on other charged objects within the field.

Ionization: The process by which an atom or molecule acquires a negative or positive charge by gaining or losing electrons.