Another Current and Drift Velocity Question

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the number of electrons passing through a circuit when a car's starter motor draws 50 A for 1.5 seconds. The first method calculates the charge as 75 C, leading to approximately 4.69 x 10^20 electrons using the charge of an electron. The second method yields a different result of 1.56 x 10^21 electrons but raises questions about the variables used, particularly the meaning of "5" in the equation. Participants agree that the first method is correct and seek clarification on the second method's components. The conversation emphasizes the importance of using proper units and understanding the equations involved.
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[SOLVED] Another Current and Drift Velocity Question

1. A car's starter motor draws 50 A from the car's battery during startup. If the startup time is 1.5 s, how many electrons pass a given location in the circuit during that time?







3.As current = rate of flow of charge,
I = q/t
Charge, q = I.t = 50 x 1.5 = 75 C
1 electron has charge, e = 1.6x10^-19 C
And q = N.e
Number of electrons which pass in 1.5 s,

N = q/e = 75 C/1.6x10^-19 C = 4.69x10^20 electrons


OR use this equation:I = ne/dt and get:



n = 50 x 5 = 250
e 1.6 x 10-19
= 156.25 x 10^19
= 1.56 x 10^21 electrons
1.56 x 10^21 electrons pass during that time.


Which solution/answer is correct?
 
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It would be better if you used units. I'm not sure I understand your numbers.

In the second equation, what is the 5 in n=50 x 5?
 
The first method is correct. I'm afraid I don't understand the second one. What's "d" in that equation?
 
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