Why is a spark seen when removing synthetic clothes in the dark during winter?

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) $1$. During winter,the air is dry,meaning it has low humidity.
$2$. When synthetic clothes are removed,they rub against the body or other layers of clothing,causing the transfer of electrons due to friction (triboelectric effect).
$3$. This process results in the accumulation of static electric charges on the surface of the synthetic fabric.
$4$. Because the air is dry,it acts as a poor conductor,allowing the charge to build up to a high potential difference.
$5$. When the potential difference becomes high enough,it causes a momentary breakdown of the air's insulating property,leading to a rapid discharge of electricity in the form of a spark,which is visible in the dark.

Explore More

Similar Questions

$A$ polythene piece rubbed with wool is found to have a negative charge of $3.52 \times 10^{-7} \text{ C}$. What is the number of electrons transferred?

Why does matter obtain electric charge?

How are conductors and non-conductors different? Why are they not charged by rubbing them with our hands?

In Millikan's oil drop experiment for the determination of the charge on the electron,the reason for using oil is:

Rubbing a plastic rod with wool gives the plastic rod a negative charge of $8 \times 10^{-7} \ C$. How many electrons have been transferred,and from where to whom?

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo