Effect of Hall effect on resistance

In summary, the conversation discusses the effect of a magnetic field on current-carrying wires and the potential impact on resistance. It is noted that the Hall effect can cause charge carriers to move to one side, potentially decreasing the effective cross section area and increasing resistance. However, the small capacitance of the conductor means that this effect is minimal. It is also mentioned that magnetic fields can affect conductivity through other mechanisms.
  • #1
kneeslider
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(The topic was previously posted in Electrical Engineering forum)
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=510793
The charge carriers in a current carrying wire subjected to a magnetic field will move to a side due to the Hall effect. But doesn't that also decrease the effective cross section area through which the charge carriers are moving? Does the resistance increase? If so, how significant is it in electric machines like motors?
 
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  • #2
Keep in mind the capacitance of the conductor is very small so, although a magnetic field does slightly "compress" the electron gas, the density will not change appreciably and thus neither will the effective conducting cross section.

(Note though that magnetic fields can affect conductivity through other mechanisms.)
 

1. How does the Hall effect affect resistance?

The Hall effect is the creation of a voltage difference across a conductor when a magnetic field is applied perpendicular to the current flow. This voltage difference, known as the Hall voltage, can alter the resistance of the material by affecting the movement of charge carriers.

2. What is the relationship between the Hall effect and resistance?

The Hall effect results in a change in resistance due to the interaction between the magnetic field and the charge carriers. This can either increase or decrease the resistance, depending on the direction of the magnetic field and the type of charge carriers in the material.

3. How do different materials respond to the Hall effect?

The extent to which a material is affected by the Hall effect depends on its conductivity and the type of charge carriers present. Materials with high conductivity and a high density of charge carriers will show a larger Hall voltage and thus a greater effect on resistance.

4. Can the Hall effect be used to measure resistance?

Yes, the Hall effect can be used to measure resistance by applying a known magnetic field and measuring the resulting Hall voltage. This can give information about the type and concentration of charge carriers in a material, as well as its resistivity.

5. How does temperature affect the Hall effect on resistance?

The Hall effect on resistance is affected by temperature in a similar way to other electrical properties. As temperature increases, the movement of charge carriers increases, leading to a higher Hall voltage and a decrease in resistance. However, this relationship may not hold for all materials and may vary depending on the type of charge carriers present.

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