In conclusion, after observing a plastic comb attracting pieces of paper to it, does there need to be contact between objects for an electric force, like static electricity, to exist?

Question

No, there is an invisible force

Yes, they need to touch in order to attract

Answer 1

In conclusion, the answer is No, there is an invisible force. Static electricity can cause objects to attract each other without direct contact. When an object, such as a plastic comb, is charged (for example, by rubbing it against hair), it creates an electric field around it. This field can attract nearby neutral objects, like pieces of paper, due to the induced charges on those objects, even when they do not touch.