Static Balloon Experiments
A balloon rubbed on hair bends running water and picks up torn paper bits, using static electricity.
Thinking
5–10 years
10–20 min
Active
Low mess
At home
What you need
- A balloon
- Torn tissue paper bits
- A running tap
Setup
- Blow up a balloon and rub it on hair or a wool jumper for 10-20 seconds
- Hold it near torn paper bits on a table
- Try holding it near a thin, slow stream of water from the tap
Play prompts
- What do you think will happen to the paper?
- Can you make the water bend without touching it?
- Why do you think rubbing the balloon changes what it can do?
Ways to change it up
- Race two balloons to see which picks up more paper bits
- Try sticking the balloon to a wall after rubbing it
Safety notes
- Supervise around the tap so the floor doesn't get slippery
- Balloons are a choking hazard if popped, keep pieces away from toddlers
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