GED Science Practice

What is the term for the net buildup of electric charges on an object?

1. Static electricity

2. Sterility

3. Subatomic particle

4. Stimulus

The correct answer is: Static electricity

The term for the net buildup of electric charges on an object is static electricity. This phenomenon occurs when there is an imbalance of electric charges within or on the surface of a material. This can happen due to various processes, such as friction, which can cause one object to lose electrons while another gains them, resulting in a net charge. Static electricity is commonly experienced in everyday situations, such as when you rub a balloon on your hair and it becomes charged, allowing it to stick to walls or attract small bits of paper. Other terms in the choices do not relate to the buildup of electric charges. Sterility refers to the absence of living organisms, which does not connect to electric charge. Subatomic particles are the constituents of atoms and don't reflect the concept of charge buildup as a separate phenomenon. A stimulus refers to something that provokes a response in an organism or system, which also doesn't pertain to electric charge accumulation. Therefore, static electricity is the appropriate term to describe this phenomenon.