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