Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, Part 20 summary
Part 20 of 23 · 2 min to read the part
In Electrical Kite Appendix, B. Franklin writes to Peter Collinson about a successful Philadelphia experiment that draws electricity from clouds with a silk kite instead of rods on buildings. He explains the apparatus and its electrical effects, presenting them as proof that lightning and the electricity used in familiar experiments are the same.
What happens
- Franklin notes European newspaper reports about Philadelphia experiments using pointed rods on high buildings.
- He describes making a silk kite on a cedar cross and adding a pointed wire.
- He places a key at the junction of twine and silk ribbon and directs the holder to keep the ribbon dry.
- He explains that a passing thundercloud electrifies the kite and twine, making loose fibers spread and respond to a nearby finger.
- Rain improves conduction, allowing electricity from the key to charge a phial and perform experiments that establish its identity with lightning.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
In this part
Quick check
Why does Franklin choose silk rather than paper for the kite?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
