Hobbies And Interests
Balloon Madness
Most people are well aware of balloons easily succumbing to the forces of static electricity. Balloon experiments with static charges are quick, easy and cheap. To start, first blow up the balloon, tying it when you're finished. Find someone who doesn't mind making her hair a little messy. Rub the balloon vigorously across her hair. As you lift the balloon away, her hair will defy gravity, following the balloon. The same effect can also be seen when running a plastic comb through hair.
Moving Paper
Another similar technique for inducing a negative charge is to use a piece of wool cloth. Tear several pieces of paper up into small shapes; alternatively, if you have small children, you can have them cut out small paper animals. Place a plastic salad bowl upside down over the pieces of paper. With the wool cloth, rub the top of the plastic for several minutes. When the plastic creates a negative charge, it will cause the paper to begin to move around.
Shock Surprise
Most people have experienced a shock or two in their lifetimes -- although usually by accident. The sensation of shocking your skin occurs because of the buildup of static electricity within your body, turning you into a walking, talking experiment. When you touch something metal -- or another person -- the excess charge quickly releases, causing a shock. The best way to create a buildup of charge is to walk barefoot across the floor, rubbing your feet as you walk. If you have a really mean sense of humor, you can turn this experiment into a joke on a family member, not letting him in on the result until he figures it out on his own.
Static Electricity and Water
Static electricity also affects water. To see this in action, run a plastic comb through your hair several times; eventually the comb will become negatively charged. Use a faucet to create a slow and steady stream of water. Move the comb extremely close to the water without actually touching it. The water will be drawn toward the comb slightly.