Calculate current in a cylinder with a hollow cavity

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the total current (I) in a cylindrical conductor with a hollow cavity, where the current density (J) is uniform and directed along the z-axis. The correct formula for the total current is derived as I = (3/4)πR²·J, where R is the outer radius of the cylinder. Participants suggest calculating the cross-sectional area of the solid cylinder and subtracting the area of the hollow cavity to find the effective area for current flow. This approach simplifies the integration process initially attempted by the user.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of current density (J) and its relation to total current (I).
  • Familiarity with cylindrical coordinates and integration techniques.
  • Knowledge of cross-sectional area calculations for geometric shapes.
  • Basic principles of electromagnetism related to conductors.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of current density in cylindrical conductors.
  • Learn about integration techniques in cylindrical coordinates.
  • Explore the principles of electromagnetic theory relevant to current flow in conductors.
  • Investigate applications of current density in practical electrical engineering problems.
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Students in physics or electrical engineering, educators teaching electromagnetism, and professionals involved in designing cylindrical conductors or analyzing current flow in conductive materials.

Ylle
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Homework Statement



I got this problem (Sectional image of a cylinder):
http://img715.imageshack.us/img715/3448/cylinder.jpg

Besides that I know that the cylindrical conductor is infinite long, and the same is the cavity.

And through the conducting material there is a current density that is given by:

\textbf{J}=J\hat{\textbf{z}}

And that is pretty much it.

Now determine the total current I in the conductor.

Homework Equations



\[J=\frac{I}{A}\Leftrightarrow I=JA\]

The Attempt at a Solution



I really have no idea...
First I thought of doing this:

I=\int_{0}^{R}{J}\left( 2\pi R \right)dR-\int_{0}^{R}{J}\left( 2\pi \left( R/2 \right) \right)dR

But that kinda did not work. So now I'm quite lost :)

A hint would be much appreciated :)Oh yes, the correct answer should be:

I=\frac{3}{4}\pi {{R}^{2}}\cdot J,
that's what I know.Thanks in advance.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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What is the definition for current density? This should answer your question.
 
Well, that is what I've written in the "Relevant equations" section.
 
Calculate the cross section area of the cylinder without the hole then find the cross section area of the hole. This will give the actual cross section area.
 
So instead of the above it's:

<br /> I=\int_{0}^{R}{J}\left( 2\pi R \right)dR-\int_{0}^{R/2}{J}\left( 2\pi R \right)dR<br />

It gives the correct answer, but I don't know if that is what you meant ?
 
Yes, what you did is correct but there is another way that is simpler. Subtract the cross section area of the hole from the cross section area of a solid cylinder to find the net cross section area. This result mulltiplied by the current density equals the current. You found the net cross section area by integration.
 
Argh, ofc... That's much easier :)

Thank you :)
 

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