Static is usually caused by the meeting and division of 2 materials. That can cause static, but it is not necessary; the meeting and division are important. This is called as triboelectric charging. When the materials divide, electrons are moved from one surface to the other, resulting in a potential between the 2 objects. Due to one of the objects has a buildup of electrons, it carries a net negative charge. On the other side, the other object carries a net positive charge because of an equal lack of electrons. Both objects are charged.

Other methods of building up a static charge on an object are via induction, ion bombardment, and connection with another charged object.

The charge generated is based on several factors such as relative humidity, place of contact, and speed of division is some of those. The lesser the humidity, the higher charge is likely to be generated.