Rubber Bands & Paper Attraction

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the phenomenon of static electricity and its ability to attract lightweight objects, specifically focusing on the use of rubber bands and paper. The user experimented with various materials, including rosin, wool, and paper, but did not achieve the desired attraction effect. They successfully created static attraction using balloons and hair, highlighting the need for a more durable solution than balloons. The conversation also touches on forum account management, with users discussing account merging and identity clarification.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of static electricity principles
  • Familiarity with materials that generate static charge (e.g., wool, amber)
  • Basic knowledge of electrostatic attraction
  • Experience with simple scientific experiments
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of different materials that generate static electricity
  • Explore experiments involving static electricity and various household items
  • Learn about the physics behind electrostatic forces
  • Investigate alternative methods for creating lasting static attraction
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for educators, students, and hobbyists interested in physics experiments, particularly those exploring static electricity and its applications in everyday materials.

Cluemore
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TL;DR
I am playing around with basic things at home to see some electrical phenomena.
I was reading Michael Faraday's story, and it described him using amber, wool, and small pieces of paper to bring about an amber-paper attraction.

I tried doing this using the rosin from my violin case, wool-like material I found in my parent's room, and cutting up pieces of paper (very finely) using scissors.

Wasn't successful, but I have definitely done this using balloon, my hair, and paper. I am sure you have mostly seen this one, so I won't bother describing it.

I am just wondering, has anyone successfully got rubber bands and paper to attract? Balloons only last long (or pop), so I am looking for something that just lasts and reproduces the attraction effect.

P.S. I used to be on this forum and called myself "Clueless" so I made another account called "Cluemore" :P
 
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@berkeman thanks for letting me know. I won't be using the other account. I intend to continue using this one from here on.
 
Cluemore said:
@berkeman thanks for letting me know. I won't be using the other account. I intend to continue using this one from here on.
Greg has merged your old account into this new one of yours.
 
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Cluemore said:
Awesome! Thanks @berkeman and @Greg (which greg? there are two)
Greg Bernhardt, the owner/boss of this site. :bow:
 

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