Why does a charged balloon attract a neutral wall?

The balloon induces charge separation in the wall material.

What happens if you rub two balloons and bring them together?

Both get the same sign charge from the sweater.

How does charge decay over time in a humid environment?

Water molecules conduct charge away from the surface.

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Balloons and Static Electricity

Charge objects and observe electrostatic attraction

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How it works

Static electricity results from the transfer of electrons between materials. When a balloon is rubbed against a sweater, electrons transfer from the sweater to the balloon, giving the balloon a net negative charge. The charged balloon attracts neutral objects by inducing charge separation (polarization). Like charges repel; unlike charges attract. This is governed by Coulomb's Law.

Step-by-step

Rub the balloon on the sweater by clicking and dragging.
The balloon becomes negatively charged.
Bring it near paper scraps or the wall to observe attraction.
The charge visualization shows + and - symbols.

Key formulas

$F = k\frac{q_1 q_2}{r^2}$ Coulomb's Law
$E = \frac{F}{q}$ Electric field

Frequently asked questions

Why does a charged balloon attract a neutral wall?: The balloon induces charge separation in the wall material.
What happens if you rub two balloons and bring them together?: Both get the same sign charge from the sweater.
How does charge decay over time in a humid environment?: Water molecules conduct charge away from the surface.