Final answer:
The repulsive force between two charged pieces of transparent tape suggests that both pieces have like charges, confirming the principle that like charges repel each other. This scenario is consistent with electrostatic principles and static electricity experiences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The scenario described involves electrostatic forces between two pieces of transparent tape that are charged when pulled from a dispenser. This phenomenon is a demonstration of the basic principle that like charges repel each other. If the top piece of tape is able to float above the bottom piece without touching, it means that the repulsive force between them is greater than the gravitational force on the top piece of tape. For this to be the case, option 1) and option 2) are possible explanations as they involve opposite charges, which would attract, not repel. However, we can rule these out because the tapes are repelling each other. This negates options 3) and 4) too, since they suggest that one of the tapes has no charge, which would not cause a repulsion strong enough to support the weight of the top piece of tape. Therefore, both pieces must have the same type of charge, either both positive or both negative, leading to a repulsive force between them.
From the given information, it is clear that like charges repel each other. This is consistent with basic electrostatics principles, which state that objects with like charges experience a repulsive force when in proximity. This explanation aligns with experiences of static electricity, which also involves like charges repelling each other.