Electrostatics I

Syllabus tag: KCSE | Physics | Form 1 | Topic 9 Electrostatics I

Lesson objectives

By the end of this topic, you should be able to:

• Explain the origin of charge and state the basic law of electrostatics.
• Describe charging by friction, contact and induction.
• Describe the leaf electroscope and its uses.
• Explain the dangers and applications of electrostatic charge.

Summary

Charge arises when electrons are transferred between bodies by rubbing. A body losing electrons becomes positive; one gaining them becomes negative. Like charges repel and unlike charges attract, and repulsion is the only sure test of charge. The leaf electroscope detects charge, tests its sign and distinguishes conductors from insulators.