Spinning Static Electricity Butterfly Challenge
⚠️ Safety Warning
No special safety concerns. Fun for all ages!
All experiments require adult supervision.
Materials You'll Need
Gather these 5 items before starting
💡 Tip: Check off items as you gather them to stay organized!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these 7 steps carefully
For this spinning version, cut a butterfly shape out of thin tissue paper, making it about 5cm wide.
Place the tissue butterfly flat on a table.
Inflate the balloon and tie it off.
Rub the balloon vigorously on the wool sweater for about 30 seconds.
Slowly bring the balloon close to the butterfly without touching it.
Watch as the butterfly wings lift up and flutter toward the balloon!
Try different shapes and see which ones move the most.
✅ Remember: Take your time with each step and ask an adult for help if needed!
The Science Behind It 🔬
When you rub the balloon on wool, electrons transfer from the wool to the balloon, giving it a negative static charge. The tissue paper is neutral but when the charged balloon comes close, it causes the positive charges in the paper to move toward the surface closest to the balloon. This attraction between opposite charges is strong enough to lift the lightweight tissue paper. This is the same force that makes your hair stand up when you rub a balloon on your head! This variation explores the concept further by introducing new variables and measurements.