http://www.ck12.org Chapter 16. Static Electricity
CHAPTER
16 Static Electricity
Chapter Outline
16.1 Forces on Charged Objects
16.2 COULOMB’SLAW
16.3 REFERENCES
Electricity is very rarely visible, but it can be seen in the form of lightning. Lightning is a large spark that occurs
when many electrons move very quickly to even out an unequal distribution of electrons. Other, smaller sparks can
be seen when you scuff your feet across carpet and then touch a metal doorknob. Both these sparks represent the
same form of electricity: static electricity. Static electricity is also responsible for allowing a balloon that you rubbed
on your sweater to cling to a wall and for causing your clothes to come out of the dryer stuck together.