Question

How does rubbing one object on another create static electricity?

Answer 1

This is based on something called the triboelectric series.

Explanation:

Some materials, such as human skin, easily lose electrons, thereby resulting in an overall positive charge. Other materials, such as styrofoam, easily gain electrons, resulting in an overall positive charge.

Gaining or losing electrons by rubbing is a combination of friction and a process called 'adhesion'.