Static electricity, also called electrostatics, happens when electric charge builds up on the surface of an object. This charge can be positive or negative. It forms when atoms in a material gain or lose electrons.

When two objects rub against each other, electrons move from one to the other. One object ends up with extra electrons and a negative charge. The other loses electrons and gets a positive charge.

You often feel static electricity when you walk across a carpet and touch a metal object. That tiny shock you feel is static electricity at work!

This helpful e-book includes ten easy experiments that show how static electricity works. You can do all of them safely at home or in the classroom. They only need simple, everyday items.

Each experiment has clear, step-by-step instructions. There is also a short explanation after each one, so young students can easily understand what’s happening.

Have fun exploring the amazing world of static electricity!