A Kelvin water dropper

I can't think of a better way to learn physics than listening to part of a lecture by Dr. Walter Lewin, Professor Emeritus of Physics at M.I.T.  Here he explains (and demonstrates) the Kelvin water dropper electrostatic generator.  If, like me, you are fascinated by discovering that electricity can be generated by falling drops of water, then you should read the explanation here.  I still don't quite understand it all, but that doesn't diminish my sense of awe.