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Except for magnitude, a spark from a Van de Graaff is no different than the 
spark you get from scuffing your feet on the floor and touching a door knob.   
If you have a small, tabletop version, then you are probably getting less than 
1/10,000 of an amp, far too small a current to cause any damage.   The main 
reason that people warn about pregnancy and heart problems during these demos 
is the same reason they put similar signs on rides at amusement parks.   
Anything that causes fear or anxiety could cause a problem with someone in advanced 
pregnancy or with a tendency for heart problems.   The same warning could just 
as easily be given when you make a loud noise, such as popping a balloon.

Robert Krampf
Robert Krampf's Science Education Company
www.krampf.com
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In a message dated 12/29/03 11:30:31 AM, [log in to unmask] writes:


> Does anyone have any web resources or printed information on Van De Graff 
> generator usage during pregnancy? (We have a small tabletop version)
> I heard it can interfere with the fetus' heartbeat and I've also heard a 
> couple of other things, but I haven't been able to find any written 
> documentation about it.  Please forward all information. 
> 
> 
> Thanks!
> 
> Michelle Krzykalski
> 


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