Triboelectric effect

Back to 5A - Electrostatics
PIRA index: 5A10.10

Description

Some material holds on to their electron better than others. Therefore, rubbing different materials together can cause a transfer of charge between them. The direction of the transfer of charge depends on the material, the surfaces shape, temperature and strain. The effect is consistent between two specific objects, but is not very predictable in general.

Equipment

• Piece of material that gives their electron easily: fur, glass, wool, etc
• Piece of material that doesn't give their electron easily: plastic, styrofoam, rubber, etc.
• Electroscope

Instructions

• Bring each object close to the electroscope to show their neutrality
• Rub the two object together.
• Bring each of them close to an electroscope to show the charge the gathered.

Images & Movies

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