The "electrostatic series" is a table used to determine whether a substance wants to hold onto their electrons (and become positive or negatively charged). 1
Acetate
Weak Hold on electrons
Glass
Wool
Fur, Hair
Calcium, Magnesium, Lead
Silk
Aluminum, Zinc
Cotton
Paraffin
Ebonite
Polyethylene (plastic)
Carbon, Copper, Nickel
Rubber
Sulfur
Strong hold on electrons
Platinum, Gold
Predict what will happen if ...
a) gold is rubbed with fur
b) wax and polyethylene are rubbed
2
Pg. 275 # 1b, 2, 3a, 4, 5
1. b) ­ Amount of friction
­ Substances being rubbed
­ Humidity (time of year)
2. The substance closer to the top of the list, gives away electrons and becomes positive. The substances closer to the bottom of the list
accept electrons and become negative. 3. Acetate: gives away electrons (+)
Fur: accepts electrons (­)
Cotton: gives away electrons (+)
Rubber: accepts electrons (­)
4. Wool: gives away electrons (+)
Silk: accepts electrons (­)
5. Aluminum is better to reduce static because it is
closer on the list to hair than plastic. 3