Physics electrostatics Flashcards
what causes static electricity
friction
can insulators have static electricity
yes
how can insulators have static electricity
insulators rub together
negative electrons are scrapped by one insulator and put onto the other
which material gets the electron
An electron is transferred from an atom of one material to an atom of another material.
When this occurs, electrons move from the material with a weaker bond to the material with a stronger bond.
what is a charge
a charge is when a material gains or loses electrons
why is earthing important
if there is a fault in the system it means that if a person touches the material they will be electrocuted
what is the role of the earth wire
The earth wire is therefore connected to the case and is attached to a metal plate or water pipe underground.
the earth wire is made of copper, the earth wire provides a low resistance path to the ground.
In the event of a fault, the live current passing through the case will follow this path to the ground instead of passing through a person.
why does electrocution takes place
there is a high potential difference between the body and application.