What is one of the easiest ways to create a static charge?

Creating a static charge through friction is one of the most common and effective methods because it involves the transfer of electrons between two materials when they come into contact and then separate. When two different materials are rubbed together, electrons can be transferred from one surface to the other, resulting in one object becoming negatively charged and the other positively charged. This phenomenon occurs because different materials have varying tendencies to attract electrons, which is described by the triboelectric effect.

For example, if you rub a balloon against your hair, electrons move from your hair to the balloon, giving the balloon a negative charge; meanwhile, your hair becomes positively charged. This process is easily observable and can happen with many types of materials, making friction a very accessible way to generate static electricity in everyday situations.