Why Does a Rubber Balloon Become Positively Charged?

The Science Behind a Rubber Balloon Becoming Positively Charged

A rubber balloon is rubbed with a PVC pipe and the rubber balloon becomes positively charged. But why does this happen? The answer lies in the transfer of electrons between the rubber balloon and the PVC pipe.

When the rubber balloon is rubbed against the PVC pipe, electrons are transferred between the two materials. In this case, the rubber balloon loses electrons to the PVC pipe. As a result, the rubber balloon now has a deficiency of electrons, making it positively charged.

This phenomenon occurs due to the triboelectric effect, which is the generation of an electric charge by friction between two different materials. In this case, the friction between the rubber balloon and PVC pipe causes the transfer of electrons, leading to the rubber balloon becoming positively charged.

It is important to note that the transfer of electrons is key in creating a charge difference between the two materials. The movement of electrons from one material to another results in one material becoming positively charged and the other becoming negatively charged.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is d) Because the rubber balloon lost electrons to the PVC pipe.

Explanation:

Electrons are lost or gained when the balloon is rubbed with a PVC. As the rubber balloon lost electrons, it will have more protons, hence the positive charge. (More protons than electrons in the balloon).

A rubber balloon is rubbed with a PVC pipe and the rubber balloon becomes positively charged. Why is this?

Answer: d) Because the rubber balloon lost electrons to the PVC pipe.