How objects become charged by friction (electron transfer), the forces between charges, charging by induction, electric fields, and the uses and hazards of static charge.
5 narrated scenes. Press play, listen and read along — the points appear as they are explained. Use ‹ Prev / Next › or the scene bar to jump to any scene.
Rub a balloon on your hair and it sticks to the wall. The same effect, on a cloud-sized scale, produces lightning.
Narration uses your device’s built-in voice. No sound? Switch to “Captions only” — the captions advance on their own.
Copy these into your notebook in your own words — that is how they stick.
Electrons transfer between insulators; protons do not move.
Polythene gains electrons (−); cloth loses them (+).
Glass/perspex loses electrons (+).
Like repel; unlike attract; stronger when closer.
Charged rod near insulated conductor; earth; remove earth then rod; opposite charge.
A region where a charge experiences a force; lines from + to −.
Spray painting, dust extraction, photocopiers.
Lightning, fuel ignition, shocks; use earthing.
3 quick games on this lesson. Earn XP and badges as you play — your best score for each game is saved. Games are for practice and do not change your exam readiness. More games in the Physics Arcade.
8 items modelled on real CSEC Paper 1 questions. Choose one answer for each, then check. Aim for 80% or better. Work each item on paper first.
Write full answers, then reveal the mark scheme and tick the points you earned (14 marks in total). Show all your working — method marks count. Your answers are saved on this device.
Question 1 [14 marks]
A polythene rod is rubbed with a dry cloth and becomes negatively charged.
(a) (a) Explain, in terms of electrons, how the rod becomes negatively charged. [3]
(b) (b) The charged rod attracts small pieces of paper. Explain why. [3]
(c) (c) State the force between two negatively charged objects. [1]
(d) (d) Describe how an insulated metal sphere can be given a positive charge using the rod. [4]
(e) (e) Define an electric field. [1]
(f) (f) State one hazard and one use of static charge. [2]
Find these in your own past-paper booklets for extra timed practice. Items above are written in the style of these papers; any adapted from a specific question say so.