Calculating Current given the number of electrons and positive ions

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric current in a fluorescent tube with a diameter of 3 cm, where 10 x 1018 electrons and 2.5 x 1018 positive ions flow through a cross-sectional area each second. The current (I) is determined using the formula I = (ΔQ)/(ΔT), where ΔT is 1 second. The total charge is calculated by adding the contributions from both electrons and positive ions, taking into account the charge of an electron (approximately -1.6 x 10-19 coulombs) and the positive charge of ions (+e).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric charge and current
  • Familiarity with the formula I = (ΔQ)/(ΔT)
  • Knowledge of the charge of an electron (approximately -1.6 x 10-19 coulombs)
  • Basic concepts of ion flow and electron flow in conductors
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the total charge contributed by the electrons and positive ions
  • Explore the implications of current direction in circuits
  • Learn about the relationship between charge, current, and voltage in electrical systems
  • Investigate the behavior of ions and electrons in different types of conductors
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, electrical engineering students, and anyone interested in understanding electric current and charge flow in conductive materials.

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Homework Statement



In a fluorescent tube of diameter 3 cm, 10 *1018 electrons and 2.5 * 1018 positive ions (with a charge of +e) flow through a cross-sectional area each second. What is the current in the tube?


Homework Equations


Current is I = (delta Q)/(deta T)



The Attempt at a Solution



delta t is given as 1 second, but how do u calculate the change in charge given this information?
 
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Use the charge on the electron. Note that the positive ions will go the opposite way to the electrons, so you must add the two currents.
 

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