# Explain why a balloon that has been rubbed against a woollen jumper sticks to a wall.

> AQA GCSE Physics (8463) — 4.2.6 Static electricity (Phys only) · Explain · 4 marks

> When a balloon is rubbed against a woollen jumper and then held close to a wall, it clings to the wall's surface without falling.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Rubbing transfers electrons from the jumper to the balloon
2. The balloon gains a negative static charge (because it has gained electrons)
3. The charged balloon induces / attracts opposite charges in the surface of the wall
4. Opposite charges attract, so the balloon is pulled towards the wall (electrostatic force of attraction)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Physics (8463)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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