Static electricity or electrostatics

Static electricity, also known as electrostatics, is the accumulation of electric charge on the surface of an object. This charge can be positive or negative and occurs when the atoms of a material gain or lose electrons.

This static energy is generated when two objects rub against each other, transferring electrons from one to another. The result is that one of the materials is left with an excess of electrons (negative charge) and the other with a deficit of electrons (positive charge). A common example is the sensation of a small electric shock when touching a metal surface after walking on a rug.

• Friction

This is the most common method. When two materials rub against each other, the electrons move from one material to the other. For example, by rubbing a balloon against your hair, the balloon is negatively charged as it gains electrons, while your hair is positively charged as it loses them.

• Contact and separation

By bringing two objects together and then separating them, static electricity can be generated. For example, friction when peeling off a piece of adhesive tape can cause it to become electrically charged, as some electrons from the surface remain on the tape.

• Induction

A charged object can influence another close by without the need to touch it. This occurs because the electric field of the charged object can move electrons in the other object. For example, when a charged comb is brought close to small pieces of paper, these pieces are brought close to the comb without direct contact.

• Pressure and deformation

Some materials, such as certain plastics or glass, generate electricity when pressed or deformed. A daily example is when, after sitting on a plastic seat, you feel a small shock when getting up. This happens because the pressure and movement can create a static charge.

• Temperature

Quick temperature changes can also generate static electricity. For example, when rapidly cooling or heating a plastic bottle, you may feel a small shock when you touch it. This occurs because the change in temperature can redistribute electrons in the plastic.

• Influence of external electric fields

A nearby electric field can make a neutral material charged without the need for contact. An example is when a charged balloon gets close to a water jet; the water curves towards the balloon. This happens because the balloon's electric field reorganizes the water molecules.

Minimize the accumulation of static electricity and avoid inconveniences with these tips:

• Touch a metal surface. The quickest way to discharge the electric charge is to touch a grounded metal object, such as a key or metal pole. This helps neutralize the static current accumulated in the body.
• Wear appropriate clothing. Cotton, linen, or silk fabrics generate less electricity compared to synthetic garments. Tight-fitting clothing can increase friction and build-up of static charges.
• Use antistatic products. Antistatic products, such as sprays and fabric softeners, are made to neutralize the electric charge in fabrics. They work by reducing friction and the accumulation of static charges, and you can find them in home product stores or grocery stores.
• Keep your skin hydrated. Hydrated skin generates less friction with clothes, reducing the accumulation of static electricity.
• Walk barefoot. Walking barefoot on natural surfaces such as the floor or grass can help discharge static electricity.
• Use humidifiers. Maintaining an appropriate level of humidity in the environment with a humidifier helps to reduce the accumulation of static electricity and facilitates the conduction of electricity in the air.
• Use antistatic wristbands. In industrial environments, antistatic wristbands help to control static electricity. They are made from conductive materials that, when coming into contact with the skin, transfer the charge accumulated in the body to a grounding system through a cable. This protects electronic equipment and prevents unwanted discharges.