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oneamp
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If I rub my socks around on the carpet, then touch the end of my unplugged laptop charger, and get a spark, why doesn't the breaker pop?
Static electricity is a build-up of electric charge on the surface of an object. It occurs when there is an imbalance of positive and negative charges, and the charges are not able to flow or discharge.
Static electricity is created when certain materials, such as rubber and plastic, are rubbed together. This rubbing causes the transfer of electrons between the materials, resulting in an imbalance of electric charge.
The main difference between static electricity and current electricity is that static electricity is stationary, while current electricity is constantly flowing. Static electricity also involves an imbalance of charges on the surface of an object, while current electricity involves a continuous flow of electrons through a conductor.
Current electricity can be created from static electricity through a process called electrostatic induction. This involves bringing a charged object close to a conductor, which causes the charges to separate and create a flow of electrons through the conductor.
In most cases, static electricity is harmless. However, in certain situations, such as in the presence of flammable gases or liquids, it can be dangerous. It can also cause damage to sensitive electronic equipment. It is important to discharge built-up static electricity properly to avoid potential hazards.