Static electricity is a phenomenon that occurs when an imbalance of electrical charges builds up on the surface of an object or material. This imbalance is typically caused by the transfer of electrons between two objects that come into contact with each other. When the objects are separated, the one that gained electrons becomes negatively charged, while the one that lost electrons becomes positively charged.

The term "static" refers to the fact that the electrical charges don't flow continuously, as they do in a current, but rather remain stationary on the surface of the object. The static charge can be discharged when the charged object comes into contact with another object that can accept or donate electrons, allowing the charges to redistribute and return to a neutral state.

Static electricity is commonly observed in everyday life, such as when you shuffle your feet across a carpeted floor and then touch a metal object, resulting in a small shock. This occurs because the friction between your feet and the carpet causes a transfer of electrons, leaving your body with a surplus of negative charges. When you touch a metal object, these charges flow from your body to the metal, creating a visible spark and a sensation of a mild shock.
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