Understanding Copy Machines: The Science Behind Positive and Negative Charges

  • Thread starter RuroumiKenshin
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But this is the main idea.In summary, the color of the original paper (black or white) does not determine the charge in a copy machine. A cylinder in the machine is positively charged and light is pointed towards it. Black color absorbs the light, while white color reflects it. The cylinder then becomes neutral in the places where light reached, and remains positively charged in the places corresponding to black areas on the original paper. Negatively charged ink is then applied to the cylinder and only attaches to the positively charged areas. When the cylinder is rolled over a white paper, the ink transfers and the paper is dried, creating a copy. This process is known as the photoelectric effect.
  • #1
RuroumiKenshin
Why is it that black sends a positive charge through a copy machine while white sends a negative charge? I presume it has something to do with the wave lengths?

If you don't know how a copy machine works, consult me. I have an unexplained obssession of learning about copy machines (and it is more like a craving).
 
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  • #2
Originally posted by MajinVegeta
I have an unexplained obssession of learning about copy machines (and it is more like a craving).

Maybe you have Asperger Syndrome? Nah... I'm just joking with you.

eNtRopY
 
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  • #3
Originally posted by MajinVegeta
Why is it that black sends a positive charge through a copy machine while white sends a negative charge? I presume it has something to do with the wave lengths?

If you don't know how a copy machine works, consult me. I have an unexplained obssession of learning about copy machines (and it is more like a craving).

It is not this way Majin.
It is not that the black or white makes the charge !
What actually happens (as far as i remmember) is that a certain cylinder gets positively charged (and it is made of a certain material).
Then light is pointed towards the paper so that it reflects on this cylinder, black color will absorb the light, while white color will reflect the light.
Therefore light will reach the cylinder only from places that where white.
Now due to the photoelectric effect, the positive charge that where on the cylinder will become neutral the places where light came (iow, the white places).
So the cylinder will be positively charged only in the places corresponsing to black places in the original paper.
Afterwards negatively charged ink will be put on the cylinder, it will only attach to the places that are positively charged on the cylinder (places where light didn't come, therefore correspond to black places).
Then cylinder slides over a white paper, the paper is dried, and comes out from the machine.

My information are rusty in my mind, so maybe i am wrong ..
 
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1. What is the science behind positive and negative charges in copy machines?

The science behind positive and negative charges in copy machines is based on the principle of electrostatics. This principle states that opposite charges attract each other, while like charges repel each other. In copy machines, positive and negative charges are used to attract toner particles and transfer them onto paper to create an image.

2. How does a copy machine create a positive or negative charge?

A copy machine creates a positive or negative charge through a process called triboelectric charging. This process involves rubbing two materials together, one of which is a conductor, to create a transfer of electrons and generate a charge. The type of charge created depends on the materials used and the direction of the rubbing motion.

3. What is the role of toner particles in the copy machine process?

Toner particles play a crucial role in the copy machine process. These particles are made up of a pigment, which gives them color, and a plastic resin, which helps them adhere to the paper. In the copy machine, the toner particles are given a positive or negative charge and then transferred onto the paper to create the image.

4. How does a copy machine transfer the toner particles onto paper?

A copy machine transfers toner particles onto paper through a combination of electrostatic attraction and heat. The paper is given a negative charge, while the toner particles are given a positive charge. The positively charged toner particles are then attracted to the negatively charged paper and are fused onto the paper by heat from the fuser unit.

5. What factors can affect the quality of copies produced by a copy machine?

The quality of copies produced by a copy machine can be affected by various factors such as the age and condition of the machine, the type and quality of paper used, and the accuracy of the electrical charge. Dust and debris inside the machine can also cause smudging or streaking on copies. Regular maintenance and using high-quality materials can help improve the overall quality of copies produced by a copy machine.

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