Question 1: Define electric current in the context of static electricity.

Answer: Electric current is the rate of flow of electric charge through a conductor or medium.

Question 2: Explain the mechanism by which charges are transferred during static electricity phenomena.

Answer: Charges are transferred through processes such as friction, contact, or induction, causing electrons to move from one material to another.

Question 1: A charge of 4.8 Coulombs flows through a conductor in 2 seconds. Calculate the electric current in amperes.

Answer: Current = 2.4 A

Question 2: If an electric current of 3 Amperes flows, and the charge transferred over 5 seconds is known, what is the total charge transferred? Show your working.

Answer: Charge Q = 15 Coulombs

Question 1: Outline the safety precautions necessary when handling materials that generate static electricity.

Answer: Ensure proper grounding, avoid flammable materials, and handle charged objects with care to prevent static shocks.

Question 2: List the variables that could affect static charge transfer in an experiment and how they might be controlled.

Answer: Variables include material type, humidity, contact area, and pressure. These can be controlled by using consistent materials, conducting experiments in low humidity environments, and maintaining uniform contact conditions.

Question 1: A person rubs a balloon on their wool jumper and the balloon acquires a static charge of 2 × 10⁻⁶ Coulombs. If the charge is transferred over 0.5 seconds, what is the average current? Show your working.

Answer: Average current = 4 × 10⁻⁶ A

Question 1: Explain how static electricity can cause sparks and discuss the safety measures to prevent electrical shocks in everyday life. (6 marks)

Answer: Static electricity causes sparks when accumulated charges suddenly discharge, often through the air, creating a visible spark and potential shock. To prevent shocks, grounding conductive objects, avoiding synthetic fabrics that generate static, and maintaining humidity indoors are effective measures.

Question 1: Describe how electrostatic precipitators use static electricity to improve air quality, including the basic principle involved.

Answer: Electrostatic precipitators use static electricity to charge particles in polluted air, then attract and collect them on oppositely charged plates, removing contaminants from the air.