Static Electricity

Explore the attraction between different materials.


Rub an inflated balloon on the carpet. Bring it near a thin stream of running water from the tap.

  • What happens to the stream of water?

    Rub the balloon again on the carpet. Bring it near a pile of confetti.

  • What happens to the confetti?

    Gather together a plastic comb, plastic pen, glass dish and a few other non-metallic objects. Rub each of these objects on a carpet or sweater. Bring each in turn near the confetti.

  • What happens?

    Rub each of the objects with a piece of silk.

  • Now what happens when they are brought near the confetti?

    Blow up two balloons and tie a long string to each. Hang them beside each other from the ceiling. Rub the balloons on a sweater or on your hair.

  • What happens?

    Put your hand between the balloons and watch what happens.

  • Do you know why?

    Student Activities