1. Atoms contain negatively charged electrons that orbit the positively charged nucleus, which contains positively charged protons and uncharged neutrons. 2. Static electricity occurs when an object gains an excess of electrons or protons, causing it to become charged. Charged objects exert forces on other charged objects, attracting or repelling them. 3. Lightning is a large discharge of static electricity that builds up in storm clouds. The flash of light is produced by collisions between electrons and air molecules, and the thunderous sound comes from rapidly expanding heated air.