Understanding Electricity

Static and Dynamic Electricity

Static: Static electricity is the result of an accumulation of electric charges that occurs when two non-metallic objects rub against each other: for example, when we rub a balloon and it sticks to the wall. Electrons jump from one object to the other, causing a positive charge in one and a negative charge in the other.

Balance is restored through a discharge of static electricity. This discharge can happen slowly, as when the balloon falls down from the wall after a while. But it can also take place quickly: for example, when we rub our feet on a carpet and then touch a metallic object. We then feel a slight electric shock. The crackling we hear is simply the sound of air heating up and expanding after electrical energy has been released through the spark.

Dynamic: Dynamic electricity is the flow of electric charges through a conductor; in other words, an electric current.