All the objects we see are composed of tiny particles called atoms. Though the word atom means "indivisible" atoms are also formed by even smaller particles. When named the atom, obviously, this was not known. These particles of atoms are called protons, neutrons and electrons, and are quite different between them. One feature that distinguishes them is their electrical charge. Protons are positively charged, negatively charged electrons and neutrons have no electric charge, are neutral.

Normally atoms have equal numbers of protons and electrons, so that positive and negative charges are compensated. Thus, the overall burden of the atom is neutral. But if two objects rub against each other, some electrons can pass from one atom to another. Atoms that gain new negatively charged electrons gain. The losers, are positively charged. When the charges are separated in this way is called static electricity.


If two things have opposite charges attract, but if they have the same charge repel. This explains why we put hair on end when we threw up a sweater or a wool hat. Since taking this action to rub our hair with wool, some electrons pass into the hair and hair weaving and we are positively charged. Things with the same charge repel. Therefore, the hair to get away from each other. As well hooked on our head (thankfully), the most effective they can do is put on end, well away from the rest.
Rays

Lightning is caused by the discharge phenomena on the floor of the static electricity that is generated in clouds by the friction of the water crystals they contain.
The burden is not created nor destroyed ...

When you load an object with static electricity, electrons do not create or destroy, or do not appear or disappear protons. The electrons simply move from one place to another. The global burden, therefore, persists. This is what is called the principle of conservation of charge.
Winter-summer

Generally, only notice static electricity in winter when the air is very dry. During the summer, the air is humid. The water in the air helps electrons to leave our body because it is electrically conductive, and for this we can not carry us far enough.


If we walk on carpet, especially synthetic ones, and the rub, its electrons move to our body. If you then touch the door lock ... ZAP! Electrons move from the lock and we feel a cramp because our nerve receptors are stimulated.

When we rub two materials, electrons pass one another. What material and release electrons which will accept them? Scientists have classified materials on the basis of its ability to retain or transfer electrons. This classification is called triboelectric series. Here you can find a home triboelectric series.