Insulators have a higher work function than metals, meaning it takes a higher energy photon to knock off an electron, but even insulators have electrons. The photons probably have to be vacuum-ultra violet (100 nm or shorter wavelength).ArielGenesis said:I thought photoelectric effect only happens in metals?
Insulators become charged when they come into contact with a charged object or are rubbed against another material, causing electrons to be transferred from one surface to another.
Insulators hold a charge because they have a high resistance to the flow of electric current. This means that the electrons that are transferred onto the insulator's surface cannot easily move or disperse, resulting in a build-up of charge.
Yes, all insulators have the potential to become charged. However, some materials, such as rubber and glass, are better insulators and can hold a charge for longer periods of time.
A charged insulator can create an electric field around itself, which can attract or repel other charged objects. This can also lead to static electricity, where two charged objects can interact with each other without coming into contact.
A charged insulator can be discharged by grounding it, which means connecting it to a conductor that can carry the excess electrons away. This can be done by touching the insulator with a grounded object or placing it near a grounded surface.