Friction and Static Electricity

Vocabulary flashcards covering the atomic basis of static electricity, electron transfer, and the effects of friction on various materials.

Friction

The process of rubbing materials (such as plastic, Perspex, and glass) with others (such as nylon, wool, or silk) to transfer electrons between the atoms of the two materials.

Electrons

The negatively charged particles found in an atom that are transferred from one material to another during charging.

Protons

The positively charged particles located in the nucleus of the atom that do not move during charging.

Neutral Atom

An atom in which the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons.

Rubbing

An action that separates existing charges within materials rather than creating new charge.

Positive surface charge

The charge created on the surface of the first material where the electrons move from.

Negative surface charge

The charge created on the surface of the second material where the electrons move to.

Woolen cloth

A material that readily gives up electrons to other materials it comes into contact with, such as a balloon or a plastic ruler.

Negatively charged balloon

A balloon that has gained extra electrons; it is attracted to positively or neutrally charged objects and repelled by other negatively charged objects.

Electron transfer (dissipation)

The process by which a negatively charged object, like a balloon on a ceiling, loses its charge and sticks less effectively as electrons are transferred to another object.