Static Electricity Lab Station # 1

What we know: Each particle of matter has an electric

charge, either positive or negative. Negative charges are
the only ones that can move from object to object. Static
electricity occurs when electrical charges build up on an
object. Opposite charges attract. Like charges repel.

Complete the lab: Take the balloon and rub it on your

hair. Then place the balloon over the pieces of paper on
the table. Being careful not to touch the pieces of paper
to the balloon, what happens when the balloon is held
over it? Did the items attract or repel?

Static Electricity Lab Station # 2

What we know: Each particle of matter has an electric
charge, either positive or negative. Negative charges are
the only ones that can move from object to object. Static
electricity occurs when electrical charges build up on an
object. Opposite charges attract. Like charges repel.

Complete the lab: Take balloon #1 and rub it on your

head, then slowly move it toward balloon #2 that is
hanging. What happened to balloon #2?
 Static Electricity Lab Station # 3

What we know: Each particle of matter has an electric

charge, either positive or negative. Negative charges are
the only ones that can move from object to object. Static
electricity occurs when electrical charges build up on an
object. Opposite charges attract. Like charges repel.

Complete the lab: Place the empty soda can on its side
on the floor. Rub the balloon against your head a few
times. Then hold the balloon close to the can without
touching the can. What happened to the can?

Static Electricity Lab Station # 4

What we know: Each particle of matter has an electric

charge, either positive or negative. Negative charges are
the only ones that can move from object to object. Static
electricity occurs when electrical charges build up on an
object. Opposite charges attract. Like charges repel.

Complete the lab: Take the balloon and rub it against

your head. Then try to touch the wall with the balloon.
What is the result?
 Static Electricity
Name:

Static Electricity Lab

Station #1: Take the balloon and rub it on your hair. Then place the balloon over the pieces of
paper on the table. Being careful not to touch the pieces of paper to the balloon.

What happens when the balloon is held over it? Did the items attract or repel?

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Thinking about charges, why do you think you got this result?

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Station #2: Take balloon #1 and rub it on your head, then slowly move it toward balloon #2 that is
hanging.

What happened to balloon #2?

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Thinking about charges, why do you think you got this result?

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 Static Electricity
Static Electricity Lab

Station #3: Place the empty soda can on its side on the floor. Rub the balloon against your head a
few times. Then hold the balloon close to the can without touching the can.

What happened to the can?

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Thinking about charges, why do you think you got this result?

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Station #4: Take the balloon and rub it against your head. Then try to touch the wall with the
balloon.

What is the result?

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Thinking about charges, why do you think you got this result?

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