Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

We are trying to conduct the "Where There Is Charge, There Can Be Sparks!" science project.

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... rge-sparks

We are at the creating the electric spark stage. We are having difficulty creating a spark with our acrylic sheet and wool. We have used a wool sock, wool hat, and a wool scarf. None of these objects have been able to produce an electric charge on the acrylic sheet. We are wondering where we are going wrong and how to troubleshoot the problem. We would appreciate your suggestions.

Hi Jsunflower,

Sorry that you're having problems with the acrylic sheet static charge. Rubbing a 100% wool cloth on a clean acrylic sheet should produce a charge. Some items you might check in your troubleshooting are as follows.

Is your acrylic sheet clean and without any protective paper or plastic on it?

Is your acrylic sheet on a clean, dry wooden surface (like a tabletop) when you rub it with the wool cloth?

Is the cloth 100% wool?

Are you rubbing the acrylic sheet with the wool cloth for 15-30 seconds?

I hope this helps. Please ask again if you have more questions.

A. Norman