Question

A plastic scale after being rubbed against dry hair attracts bits of paper as it acquires
1. Positive charge
2. Negative charge
3. Neutral
4. Both positive and negative charges

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : Negative charge

The correct answer is Negative charge.

• A plastic scale after being rubbed against dry hair attracts bits of paper as it acquires a negative charge.
• The plastic scale gets electrically charged due to rubbing against dry hair.
• The plastic scale acquires charge due to static electricity.
• A temporary collection of charges will form near the rubbed surface of the plastic scale.
• The bits of paper are electrically neutral.
• Within the paper bits, the electrons get either attracted or repelled based on the charge of the plastic scale.
• The electrically charged scale exerts an electric force against the paper bits and attracts them.
• When a plastic scale is rubbed against dry hair, the material that has a stronger affinity for electrons pulls them from the other material.
  • A negative charge will produce on the material that has gained electrons.
  • A net positive charge will produce on the material that has lost electrons.