Static Electricity and Electrical Concepts

What is electricity?

• The flow of tiny particles called electrons.

• A type of energy that makes air glow.

• A force that causes lightning bolts.

• The movement of charged atoms.

What happens when two objects with opposite electrical charges are brought near each other?

• They repel each other.

• They attract each other.

• They become neutral.

• They generate heat.

Why does a person's hair stand on end when they touch a Van de Graaff generator?

• The generator creates a strong magnetic field.

• The hair becomes positively charged and is attracted to the generator.

• The hair strands acquire the same charge and repel each other.

• The generator heats the hair, causing it to expand.

What is the primary reason that spraying water on clothes helps eliminate static cling?

• Water makes the clothes heavier, preventing them from sticking.

• Water absorbs the electric charge from the clothes.

• Water lubricates the fabric, reducing friction.

• Water neutralizes the chemical composition of the fabric.

What is the function of the third prong on some electrical plugs?

• To provide extra power to the device.

• To allow extra electrons to go to or from the ground.

• To stabilize the plug in the outlet.

• To indicate if the device is turned on.

From what Greek word, meaning amber, does the word "electricity" originate?

• Thales

• Electron

• Pine

• Amberos

Why does a comb, after being rubbed through hair, bend a stream of water?

• The comb becomes wet and heavy.

• The comb builds up a negative charge, attracting water molecules.

• The water molecules are repelled by the comb.

• The comb heats up the water, causing it to bend.

What is an electroscope used to detect?

• Sound waves

• Static electricity

• Light intensity

• Temperature changes

What causes the aluminum foil leaves of an electroscope to push apart when a charged object is brought near?

• The charged object transfers its mass to the leaves.

• The leaves become oppositely charged and attract each other.

• The leaves acquire the same type of charge and repel each other.

• The air pressure around the leaves increases, forcing them apart.

What is the primary cause of lightning during a thunderstorm?

• Water droplets in clouds freezing into ice.

• Electrical charges building up in clouds and then discharging to the ground.

• Strong winds causing clouds to collide.

• Sunlight reflecting off ice crystals in the atmosphere.