Investigating Electricity
Activity Summary
Students use rods and friction pads made of various materials to investigate the transfer of electrons when they are rubbed together. By using the triboelectric sequence, students can determine the direction of electron transfer and identify which object gained or lost electrons. Students also use an electroscope to distinguish between charging by conduction and charging by induction.
Grade Levels
9-12
Learning Objectives
1. Distinguish between charging by friction, conduction, and induction
2. Use the triboelectric sequence to determine the direction of electron transfer when two different substances are rubbed together
3. Explain how an electroscope works
Lesson Materials (view or download)
Lesson Plans
Keywords
friction, conduction, induction, triboelectric sequence, electroscope
Last updated: 3/4/2015