Static electricity is when electric charge builds up on something, and it's not moving.
Charge occurs when electrons move from one place to another.
Electrons move because of friction. When you rub two different things together, the thing with a weaker hold on its electrons gives them to the one with a stronger hold.
The thing that gets electrons becomes negatively charged. The thing that loses electrons becomes positively charged.
This is called the triboelectric effect.
Conductors and insulators:
Insulators (like plastic) don't let electrons move easily, so the charge stays put. Conductors (like metals) let electrons move around, so the charge spreads out.
That little shock you sometimes feel is static discharge.
It's the charge jumping from one thing to another to balance itself out. It's like a mini lightning bolt.
What happens at the atomic level when static electricity is generated?
Can an object be negatively charged without being touched by another object?
Why do oppositely charged objects attract while like charges repel?
How does the triboelectric series explain which materials gain or lose electrons?
Why does rubbing a balloon on your hair make it stick to a wall?
How can you test if an object is charged without touching it?
Why does a charged comb attract small pieces of paper?
Can static electricity be used to power anything?
keywords
Electrons
Charge
Friction
Attraction
Repulsion
Insulator
Conductor
Triboelectric series
Discharge
Lightning