This set of two electrostatic plumes can be used for a variety of electrostatic experiments.  Each electrostatic plume consists of a metal rod mounted on an insulated plastic stand that carries a round metal plate at its top and a fringe of 40 colored nylon cords. When the plate is charged, the cords become charged as well and spread out into a wide cone by mutual repulsion. Each electrostatic plume is well insulated and will hold its charge for up to 30 minutes in dry air.

To demonstrate plumes, it is recommended to use a method that can generate a relatively large amount of charge. The plumes can hold a charge from small friction rods by "wiping" the charged rod across the plate, but the large surface area that the strings provide will require more charge to give a better demonstration. The Fun Fly Stick is a great way to demonstrate these plumes.