Calculating drift velocity of electrons in a conductor

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the drift velocity of electrons in a conductor with a cross-sectional area of 8x10^-6 m^2 carrying a current of 8A, the formula v = i/(NqA) is used. Here, N is the concentration of free electrons at 5x10^28 electrons/m^3, and q is the charge of an electron, 1.6x10^-19 C. Substituting the values into the equation allows for the determination of drift velocity. This method effectively combines the definitions of current and charge flow in a conductor. Understanding this calculation is essential for analyzing electron movement in electrical circuits.
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Homework Statement



Calculate the drift velocity of the elctrons in a conductor that has a cross-sectional area of 8x10^-6m^2 and carries a current of 8A. Take the concentration of free electrons to be 5x10^28 electrons/m^3 with 1.6x10^-19C charge on each electron.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Have a problem like this one on my study guide. Wanted to see how it was done in steps.
 
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The amount of charge passing a point in the wire in time t:
Q = NqvtA

N = electron concentration
q = electron charge
v = drift velocity
t = time
A = cross-sectional area

So:
v = Q/(NqtA)

But current is:
i = Q/t
so substitute this in:

v = i/(NqA)
 

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