You’ve probably seen this.

Rub a balloon or plastic object.
Bring it close to paper.
The paper suddenly jumps.

It’s not attraction. It’s imbalance.

Rubbing transfers extra electrons to the object.
Nature hates imbalance, so nearby lightweight objects respond first.

That’s why paper reacts so fast.
And why this works better in dry air — humidity kills static electricity.

Simple physics. Cool effect.

— How Do Things Work