Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Contact charging is a process where two objects come into direct contact with each other, resulting in a transfer of electric charge between them. One object gains electrons while the other loses electrons.
Related terms
Conduction: This refers to the transfer of electric charge through direct contact between objects or substances.
Charging by rubbing (Triboelectric effect): This is a method where two objects are rubbed together, causing them to become charged due to electron transfer.
Electric potential difference (Voltage): This term describes the difference in electric potential energy per unit charge between two points in an electric circuit.