Charging materials by friction
2 marks · EasyDescribe a practical method to show that a plastic pen can be charged by friction.
State one thing you could rub the pen with.
State how you would show the pen is charged after rubbing.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
(a) Woolen cloth (accept: hair, fabric, dry tissue, etc.).
(b) The pen can attract small pieces of paper (accept: deflects stream of water, picks up dust).
Also accept: Rub pen with hair; Show charged pen attracts small paper pieces
Common mistakes: Rubbing with another plastic correctly marked if reasonable; Testing with a metal for charging
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Names a suitable material for rubbing, e.g. woolen cloth, hair.
B1 (b) · 1 mark · Describes a correct method to show the pen is charged, e.g., attracts paper.
Worked solution
(a) Rub the plastic pen with a woolen cloth.
(b) Hold the pen near pieces of paper. The paper will move towards the pen if charged.