STATIC ELECTRICITY P2

The term Electrostatics, or Static Electricity, , comes from the Greek words elektron (meaning amber, see box below) and statikos (roughly meaning stationary). It is therefore the study of stationary charge. However, ironically, we often look at the way in which individual charges move into these stationary positions.
A charged rod attracting scraps of paper. Taken from Opfindelsernes Bog [1978] (Book of Inventions by Andr Book Inventions) Ltken. Do the rod and paper have the same or same, different, charges?

Opposite Charges Attract; Like Charges Repel This is the Golden Rule! If you remember nothing else, then remember this.

Remember the difference between conductors and insulators? A conductor allows charge to pass through it, while an insulator does not.

STATIC ELECTRICITY P2
Conductors, Atoms and Negative Charges Metals conduct very well because they have free electrons; charges which are able to move around. An atom is made up of protons (positive charge), electrons (negative charge) and neutrons (uncharged). However, atoms can gain or lose electrons: they can become either positively or negatively charged.
Amber, famous for having insects trapped inside, was admired by the Ancient Greeks for its electrostatic properties; it gains charge when friction is applied.

Adding electrons atom will become negatively charged. Removing electrons atom becomes positively charged. Charging by Friction When Perspex or Polythene, along with various other materials (see right) are rubbed, they may gain or lose electrons, depending on the material.

As electrons are negatively charged, this means that the substance becomes either positively or negatively charged itself. Charge and Force So two positive (or two negative) charges will repel each other. A positive and a negative charge will attract each other.

Unlike charges attract; like charges repel.

Two charges, when brought close to one another, will exert a force on one another.

STATIC ELECTRICITY P2
Now answer the following questions.
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5)