Forces between charged and uncharged objects
2 marks · EasyExplain why two strands of hair stand apart from each other when charged by a Van de Graaff generator.
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 mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · Mentions strands of hair become similarly charged
M2 · 1 mark · States like charges repel (causing hair to stand apart)
Worked solution
When a Van de Graaff generator charges the person, all the strands of hair pick up the same type of charge (for example, positive).
Since like charges repel, the strands push away from each other, causing them to stand apart.