Final answer:
Static electricity causes attraction between objects due to charge transfer, affecting the ability of a balloon to pick up paper.
Explanation:
Static electricity causes a balloon rubbed on a wool sweater to attract small pieces of paper when a comb is used. This phenomenon is due to the transfer of charges between the objects, creating opposite charges that result in attraction.
The balloon loses its ability to pick up paper after a few minutes because the charges dissipate into the surrounding air, neutralizing the electrostatic effect.
Factors like moisture in the air can affect electrostatic effects. Dry air facilitates stronger electrostatic interactions, making torn paper more attractive to the comb than neatly cut paper.
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