We Can Figure This Out.org
Virtual Lab: Basic Charge Attraction &Amp; Repulsion (Pithballs)
 University of Virginia
             
 
© 2003-Present, John C. Bean
 
Charge force ("electrostatic force") depends on both the number of charges and their separation.

The ball contains equal numbers of negative and positive charges.

But they are now separated from the rod by different distances. The ions are closer to the rod and so their attractive force is slightly stronger than the repulsive force on the electrons.

This net attractive force draws the ball towards the rod.

 
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