Solve Current Formula: I=nqAv | HELP

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the formula for electric current, I = nqAv, where participants seek clarification on the variables involved, specifically nq and v. The subject area is electrical current and its relation to charge carriers in a material.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the definitions of the variables in the current formula, with some seeking to understand how to calculate the number of free electrons per unit volume (n) and the drift velocity (v). Questions arise regarding the variability of v with different materials and how to derive n from material properties.

Discussion Status

Several participants have provided clarifications regarding the constants and variables in the formula. There is an ongoing exploration of how to calculate n based on material properties, with suggestions to consider lattice density and atomic mass. The discussion reflects a collaborative effort to deepen understanding without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the need for background knowledge in chemistry and material properties to fully grasp the calculations involved. There is an emphasis on understanding the concept of free electrons in the context of different materials.

Yapper
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Current = I = nqAv, HELP

I found this formula for current, I, know A is area, but I don't know what nq and v are... Can anyone help me?
 
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v=speed of electron
n= number of FREE electron per unit volume
q= charge of electron
A= cross section area
 
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oohhhhh ok, q is a constant, makes sense... Thanks a lot. V varies with the material its flowing through? And how do u calculate n??
 
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Yapper said:
oohhhhh ok, q is a constant, makes sense... Thanks a lot. V varies with the material its flowing through? And how do u calculate n??

You can try to find out the density of lattice ions, and multiply this by the number of conduction electrons they supply. In case of a solid you could look up the lattice spacing and how many atoms are in it. Or you could use the mass density and their molar masses.
 
what grade r u in? this should be easy if you have taken some very basic chemistry course...look up the density of the meterial, also the mass of atom...you can easily find out the number of atom per unit volume from the information above... then multiply by the number of free electron per atom...
 
ok, thanks for the help. I had forgotten what was meant by free. But i got it now, thanks
 
v is the drift velocity of the electron.i.e the velocity acquired by the electron due to thermal energy.
 

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