static electricity

What is static electricity

static electricity is the build up of charge on insulating materials.

How is static electricity caused

this is caused when friction between two insulator objects allow for the movement of electrons

Why does it built between only insulating materials

it only builds up on insulators as in conductor materials electrons would simply flow back.

Define insulator materials

an insulator object does not conduct electricity and does not allow electrons to be easily passed through, such as polythene.

What are conductors

in contrast, materials like aluminium which allow electrons to pass through easily are called conductors.

Explain the process of static electricity

static electricity is built through the friction of certain insulators rubbing together and negatively charged electrons are rubbed off of one material to the other. the material which gains electrons becomes negatively charged whereas the material which loses electrons gains a positive charge.

What does static electricity result in

results in either an equal lack of electrons (positive charge) or equal excess electrons (negative charge).

Describe the relationship between like and opposite charges

opposite charges attract whereas like charges repel.

How are sparks formed

sparks are caused when there’s a high enough potential difference between the charged object and the earth, causing a strong electric field between the charged object and the earth. if potential difference gets large enough, electrons can jump across a very small gap between the charged object and the earth. this is possible as the charged object removes electrons from the air particles causing it to become ionised (a positive ion) which makes it much more conductive. because its more conductive current can flow through it. this is the spark