Question

We will use a video to analyze the dependence of the magnitude of the Coulomb force between two electrically-charged metal spheres on the charge of one of the spheres. Just like mass, electric charge is a fundamental property of matter, and so it is important to understand how exactly this impacts the corresponding force between charged objects.

As the hand touches the electrophorus, in which direction do the electrons move?

Answer 1

The formation of charged matter in general depends upon the transfer of electron, either between two material or within the material. This transfer of electron is done by any of three ways, i.e. conduction, polarization or friction. Electron move but they aren't destroyed. This is known as law of conservation of charge.

The transfer of electron from van der Graff generator to the man is an example of conduction. Basically conduction occur when there is direct contact between the material that differ in their ability to accept or give up electron.

Human hands are positively charge, so they tend to accept electron. Therefore, when you touch the electrophorus, the electron move from it to you.