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Biology/Static shock

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Expert: - 12/28/2006


Question
hi,
 Why are we getting the static shock while touching the materials??

Answer
Static electricity is generated by friction.  When some materials are rubbed together (like shuffling feet on a carpet or puling off a sweater) there is a buildup of free electrons on the surface of your body.  This is a static charge and when you come in contact with another body a discharge occurs.  When I was a kid we licked to shuffle our feet on a carpet and then touch somebodys ear.  

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Walter Hintz

Expertise

Science teacher for over 50 years. MSc. in biology. I can answer questions in general biology, zoology, botany, anatomy and physiology and biochemistry.

Experience

I have a MSc in biology and have been a science teacher for over 50 years. At present I am a faculty member at a college and a science consultant at seven catholic schools.

Publications
The Ohio journal of Science
Momentum-The Journal of the Catholic Education Association

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