So far, you’ve learnt that paper sticks well to both combs and walls. But do you know you can move a rolled-up piece of paper by static attraction? Here’s how.
Things Required:
Paper
Pair of scissors
Tape
Comb
Wool
Directions:
Cut out a strip of paper about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long. Roll the paper into a cylinder and secure its shape with a small section of tape. Charge up the comb by running it through your hair or stroking it with a piece of wool or flannel. Place the comb near the paper barrel. What happens?
This Is What Happens:
Stroking the comb gives it a net negative charge. As it was brought near the neutrally charged paper barrel, it induced a charge in the paper. Negative charges on the closer side of the paper were repelled away, leaving a net positive region. This region was attracted to the comb. When inertia and friction were overcome, the paper rolled towards the comb.
