Electric Charge and Static Electricity  Have you ever noticed that the cords that connect electrical devices to outlets are always covered in plastic, and the prongs that fit in the sockets are always metal?  Both materials are used to make electrical cords because they differ in their ability to transmit charges.  Most materials can be divided into two groups based on how easily charges travel through them. These are conductors and insulators. groups based on how easily charges travel through them. These are conductors and insulators.

Electric Charge and Static Electricity  A CONDUCTOR is a material in which charges move easily. Most metals are good conductors because some of the electrons in metals are free to move around.  Water is also a good conductor. That’s why you can be shocked when using electrical appliances near water.

Electric Charge and Static Electricity  An INSULATOR is a material in which charges cannot easily move. Insulators do not conduct charges well because electrons are tightly bound to the atoms of the insulator and electrons cannot flow freely. Plastic, rubber, glass, wood, and air are all good insulators.

Electric Charge and Static Electricity  STATIC ELECTRICITY is the buildup of electric charges on an object.

Electric Charge and Static Electricity  Charges that build up as static electricity on an object eventually leave the object.  The loss of static electricity as charges move off an object is called ELECTRIC DISCHARGE.

Electric Charge and Static Electricity  One of the most dramatic examples of electric discharge is lightning.  Charges build up during storms. Lightning can occur between the cloud & ground or within the cloud.

Electric Charge and Static Electricity  A LIGHTNING ROD is a pointed rod connected to the ground by a wire. The lightning rod carries the charge safely to the Earth.

Electric Charge and Static Electricity  Anything that sticks out in an area can provide a path for lightning. Trees, people, and buildings can attract lightning.