Static electricity works on nylon because nylon is an insulator and tends to gain or lose electrons easily. Here’s a more detailed explanation:

1. Insulating Properties: Nylon, like many other synthetic materials, is a good electrical insulator. This means that it doesn't allow electrons to move freely through it. When nylon comes into contact with another material and is then separated, it can retain the electrons it gained or the electron deficiency it incurred. This build-up of charge is what we experience as static electricity.

2. Triboelectric Effect: The triboelectric effect describes how materials can become electrically charged after they come into frictional contact with a different material. Nylon tends to gain electrons and become negatively charged when it rubs against materials lower in the triboelectric series (like wool or hair) and tends to lose electrons and become positively charged when it rubs against materials higher in the series (like polyester or acrylic).

3. Electrostatic Attraction and Repulsion: Once nylon has accumulated a static charge, it can attract or repel other objects based on their charges. For example, a charged nylon fabric might stick to your skin or other surfaces due to electrostatic forces.

4. Environmental Factors: The accumulation of static electricity on nylon is more noticeable in dry environments. Humidity allows for easier dissipation of charges, reducing the buildup of static electricity.

This is why you often feel a shock when you touch a doorknob after walking on a nylon carpet, or why nylon clothing can cling to your body or other clothes.