Static Charge

• What is a static charge?

  A buildup of charge on the surface of an object
• Why does a surface with static charge have a negative charge?

  Because there are more electrons than protons
• Why does a static charge not result in a current flow?

  Because there is no complete circuit or power source
• How can static charge be produced?

  By rubbing certain insulators together
• What is an example of producing static charge?

  Rubbing a PPC rod with a cloth
• What happens when you rub a balloon against hair?

  Electrons are transferred from hair to the balloon
• What occurs to the objects involved when electrons are transferred?

  The object that gains electrons becomes negatively charged
• What charge does the cloth acquire when rubbed with the rod?

  The cloth becomes negatively charged
• What charge does the rod acquire when rubbed with the cloth?

  The rod becomes positively charged
• What happens to the hair when it is combed with a comb?

  The hair becomes positively charged
• What charge does the comb acquire when it pulls electrons from the hair?

  The comb becomes negatively charged
• What should you know about the transfer of electrons in static charge examples?

  There is a transfer of electrons
• Do you need to know the direction of electron transfer for your exam?

  No, unless specified
• What are the key features of static charge production?

  • Buildup of charge on an object's surface
  • Negative charge due to excess electrons
  • No current flow without a complete circuit
  • Produced by rubbing insulators together
• How can you demonstrate static charge in a simple experiment?

  1. Rub a PPC rod with a cloth.
  2. Observe the charge on both objects.
  3. Rub a balloon against hair.
  4. Check the charge on the balloon and hair.
• What happens to the charges of objects when electrons are transferred?

  • Gaining electrons: Negative charge
  • Losing electrons: Positive charge
  • Example: Cloth (gains) negative, Rod (loses) positive
  • Example: Hair (loses) positive, Comb (gains) negative
• What resources are available for GCSE Physics revision?

  • Launchpad Learning platform
  • Interactive quizzes
  • Easy-to-follow videos
  • AI support for motivation