Static Electricity Experiment

Approximate Time: 20 minutes Age/ Grade: 2nd 6th grade Purpose: Find out about positively and negatively charged particles. By rubbing the balloons against wool or hair creates static electricity. For example the positively charged hair is attracted to the negatively charged balloon.

Materials 2 balloons per child

string

aluminum can

wool fabric

hairProcedure:

1. Attach the string to the 2 balloons2. Rub the first balloon against the wool fabric then rub the second balloon against the fabric

a. Try and move the balloons together (the balloons are negatively charged and wont be attracted to each other)3. Rub the balloon against your hair then slowly pull it away4. Put the aluminum can on its side after rubbing the second balloon on your hair.

5. Hold the balloon to the aluminum can and the can will roll toward the balloon.