Static electricity builds when insulating materials rub against one another, resulting in a transfer and build up of electrons onto the surface of one of the materials. We most commonly experience static shocks during the winter months due to the lower humidity of air, which makes it easier for a larger charge to build up on our bodies as we shuffle across the carpet. In this demo, I use a van de Graaff generator to transfer electrons onto a Styrofoam bowl filled with confetti. When each piece becomes coated with electrons, an electrostatic explosion of confetti occurs due to the repulsive forces exerted by neighboring electrons upon one another. It’s the same phenomenon that causes your hair to stand on end when statically charged. How cool is that! #chemteacherphil #electrostatics