Conductivity of Copper Against Copper

AI Thread Summary
When two pieces of copper are held together and a current is run through the connection, the theoretical resistance could be considered zero, but in practice, it will be a small, measurable amount due to contact resistance. This contact resistance is influenced by factors such as the flatness, smoothness, cleanliness of the surfaces, and the pressure applied to join them. The discussion highlights that the resistance ultimately reflects that of a single piece of copper when adequately joined. The topic of contact resistance is critical in the study of electrical connectors, focusing on achieving reliable and durable connections. Understanding these factors is essential for optimizing electrical conductivity in practical applications.
chris2547
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Hi I was wondering if I took two peices of copper and held them together then ran a current through the connection what would the resistance of that be? Would it theoritically be zero, but in real life be some very small but insignificant amount?

Thanks
 
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It depends on details of how flat, smooth and clean the surfaces are and how much force you put on them to push them together.
Ultimately they join into one piece of copper and then the resistance is just that of a single piece of copper.
 
chris2547 said:
Hi I was wondering if I took two peices of copper and held them together then ran a current through the connection what would the resistance of that be? Would it theoritically be zero, but in real life be some very small but insignificant amount?

Thanks

That falls under the term "contact resistance", and depends on the pressure and the surface texture, etc.

The subject of "contact resistance" and reliability is a whole area of study when it comes to connectors -- how can you make the most reliable and long-lived contact possible...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contact_resistance


EDIT -- mgp_phys beats me to the punch again...
 
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