O-LevelPhysicsElectricity5054/22 · May/June 2015 · Q56 Marks

When a balloon is rubbed on hair, the balloon becomes negatively charged. The balloon is shown in Fig. 5.1. [Figure 5.1]

(a)Explain how rubbing causes the balloon to become negatively charged.[2]
(b)Explain why the hair is pulled towards the balloon.[2]
(c)Explain why it is important that the balloon is made from an electrical insulator.[1]
(d)State one example where static electricity is useful.[1]

This question uses a diagram from the original paper, which isn't shown here. Open the full paper from the past papers archive to see it.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2015). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

[1] (a) negative charge moves from hair/person/head to balloon
[1] (a) electrons move from hair/person/head to the balloon
[1] (b) hair is positive (at end)
[1] (b) opposite charges attract
or positive and negative attract
[1] (c) charges/electrons
• don't flow away
aren't conducted (to earth/person)
stay on balloon/on insulator
[1] (d) any sensible example e.g. photocopier, electrostatic precipitator, flu ash removal, spray painting, printing, crop spraying, lightning fixes nitrogen in atmosphere etc.

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