Electrostatic Induction
Contents
Key Stage 3
Meaning
Electrostatic induction is when a charged object induces a charge in a neutral object.
About Electrostatic Induction
- Neutral objects are made of an equal number of positively charged protons and negatively charged electrons.
- The electrons around an atom can move, so when a charged object is placed near a neutral the electrons can move towards or away from that charged object. This is electrostatic induction.
To learn more about Electrostatic Induction click on each of the picture below for a PHET simulation and once the balloon is charged place it near the neutral wall to see the induced charge.
 |
| In this diagram the balloon is charged with extra electrons which causes the electrons in the neutral wall to be repelled. |
Key Stage 4
Meaning
Electrostatic induction is when a charged object induces a charge in a neutral object.
About Electrostatic Induction
- Neutral objects are made of an equal number of positively charged protons and negatively charged electrons.
- The electrons around an atom can move, so when a charged object is placed near a neutral the electrons can move towards or away from that charged object. This is electrostatic induction.
To learn more about Electrostatic Induction click on each of the picture below for a PHET simulation and once the balloon is charged place it near the neutral wall to see the induced charge.
|
| In this diagram the balloon is charged with extra electrons which causes the electrons in the neutral wall to be repelled. |