Electric charge

What happens when you rub a ruler against wool or cotton?

The ruler becomes electrically charged, creating a force that can attract paper pieces.

What is the result of gaining electrons?

An object becomes negatively charged.

What is the effect of losing electrons?

An object becomes positively charged.

What do like charges do when brought near each other?

Like charges repel each other.

What occurs when unlike charges are brought close together?

Unlike charges attract each other.

What is an electrostatic force?

The force of repulsion or attraction between two electrically charged objects.

Where do charges originate from?

Charges come from atoms, which are made up of both positive and negative charges.

What types of materials typically carry positive charges?

Glass and wool carry positive charges.

What materials are known for carrying negative charges?

Rubber and plastic are known for carrying negative charges.

What is a conductor?

A material that allows charges to move easily.

Why are metals good conductors?

They allow at least one electron of each metal atom to be removed easily.

What is an insulator?

A material through which charge will not move easily.

What happens to the charge on an insulator when it is rubbed?

The charge remains localized, only on the area where it was rubbed.