09/01/2022
Today is static electricity day!
Static electricity is a stationary charge, typically caused by friction. It is created when two objects are rubbed together because electrons are transferred from one object to the other. One object becomes positive and the other negative. A non-contact force therefore exists between these two charged objects.
To explain static electricity to your child, why not have a go at these simple experiments? All you'll need is an aluminium can, a woollen jumper & two balloons.
1. Rub the 2 balloons one by one against the woollen fabric, then try moving the balloons together, do they want to or are they unattracted to each other?
2. Rub 1 of the balloons back and forth on your hair then slowly it pull it away, ask someone nearby what they can see or if there's nobody else around try looking in a mirror.
3. Put the aluminium can on its side on a table, after rubbing the balloon on your hair again hold the balloon close to the can and watch as it rolls towards it, slowly move the balloon away from the can and it will follow.
Let us know which one your little ones are most fascinated by!