1. key, charge and discharge A key for use in observing the discharge of a condenser immediately after removing the battery. In one typical form it has two contacts, one below and one above, and being a spring in itself is pressed up against the upper one. Connections are so made that when in its upper position it brings the two coatings of the condenser in circuit with the galvanometer. When depressed it does the same for a battery. In use it is depressed and suddenly released when the galvanometer receives the full charge, before there has been time for leakage. This is one method of connection illustrating its principle.
In the cut L is the spring-key proper. S2, is the upper contact screw against which the spring normally presses. In this position the galvanometer G is in circuit with the opposite coatings of the condenser C. On depressing the contact S2, is broken and S1, is made. This brings the battery B in circuit with the condenser coatings. On releasing the key it springs up and the galvanometer receives the effect of the charge of the condenser as derived from the battery.
Definitions of key, charge and discharge
