We finally have an answer: The beginning and the end of the sliding motion that produces static electricity experience different forces – resulting in a charge differential between the front and the back that results in the crackle of static electricity.
So the generic “particles just rubs” in the texbooks were lies and they didn’t know shit?
We knew enough to make it extremely useful, but didn’t have a full understanding of the underlying mechanics.
Hate to break it to you, but that is how knowledge works. Even things we have an extremely detailed understanding of are likely to have underlying mechanisms we are not aware of.
It’s not inaccurate. The electrons do “just move” but the energy transfer mechanism was unknown for static buildup. With enough kinetic energy (aka friction heat, I hate the concept of friction) the charges are going to move and collect easier, just like charging a battery. Just really tiny batteries
Oh I assure you Timmy once you grow up you’ll appreciate friction ;) ;)
Well, to be pedantic, friction is still the enemy there. But that just ruins the joke. Pedantry strikes again.