The Stone Age: Static Electricity!
Begin Dr. Sparks’ journey through the eras of magic in the Stone Age, the first known period of prehistoric human culture.
Science Explanation
Everything in the universe is made of building blocks called atoms. Atoms have tiny, invisible parts called electrons that are constantly running around. They all carry a negative electrical charge.
Our hair gives off electrons easily. When you rub tape against your hair, it acts like a thief, stealing millions of negative electrons right off your head. This gives the tape a massive negative charge.
Besides electrons, atoms also contain protons that carry a positive electrical charge. Protons and electrons love each other—opposites attract, but electrons hate other electrons and push them away—likes repel!
When I brought my negatively charged tape near the paper, it pushed away the electrons in the paper atoms and clung to the protons, making the taped wand and paper stick together. This is static electricity!
In the Stone Age, early humans believed that invisible forces like electricity were spirits and magical energy!
