Experiment reports
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Using passive voice to focus on what is done | page 3 of 4 |
The use of passive voice in Charging a conductor by sharing
The following text from a physics textbook talks about conductors and insulators. The
words in bold are verbs in passive voice 
:
Charging a conductor by sharing
Objective
To investigate charging a conductor by sharing
Apparatus
1 perspex plate measuring about 30 cm by 30 cm
1 nylon cloth
1 insulated metal plate
1 rubber sucker
1 neon bulb
Diagram
XXXXXX
XXXXXX
Method
| 1. | The perspex plate is charged by rubbing it with a nylon cloth. |
| 2. | The insulated metal plate is placed over the perspex plate for approximately ten seconds. |
| 3. | The metal plate is then lifted and the charge on it is tested with the neon bulb. |
| 4. | The charge on the perspex plate is also tested with the same neon bulb. |
Result
The neon bulb glows only when it is in contact with the metal plate.
Interpretation
This happens because the metal plate is a conductor and so can lose all its charge on a single discharge through the neon bulb. On the other hand, the perspex plate is an insulator and most of its charge remains on it without passing on to the neon bulb except at the point of contact.
Conclusion
An insulated conductor can be charged by sharing charges with another charged object.
(Adapted from Mak, S.Y. (1993) Physics Today: Workbook 2. Longman, pp 63-64, 67.)
Introduction
The use of passive voice in Charging a conductor by sharing
