Answers to AQA GCSE Static Electricity and Sparking

Practice Questions

1. A passenger in a car seat is uncomfortable and keeps moving within the seat to find a more comfortable position. Explain how this can cause the passenger to build up static electrical charge

As the passenger rubs against the car seat, friction will occur. Electrons will be transferred and static electrical charges will build up on both the passenger and the car seat. 

2. Suggest why lightning occurs in terms of static electricity

There is a potential difference between the clouds and the surface of the Earth. The lighting will allowing electrons to flow, earthing the charge. 

3. A man walks on nylon carpet tiles in the gym using his new trainers. When he touches the stainless steel water fountain he receives a small electric shock. Explain why.

As the man walks across the nylon carpet tiles friction occurs between the bottom of his trainers and the carpet. As a result he gains static electrical charge. When he touches the metal case of the water fountain electrons flow, due to a potential difference, earthing the charge.