Calculating drift velocity of electrons in a conductor

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SUMMARY

The drift velocity of electrons in a conductor can be calculated using the formula v = i/(NqA), where i is the current, N is the electron concentration, q is the charge of an electron, and A is the cross-sectional area. For a conductor with a cross-sectional area of 8x10^-6 m^2 carrying a current of 8A and an electron concentration of 5x10^28 electrons/m^3, the drift velocity can be determined by substituting these values into the equation. This method provides a clear step-by-step approach to solving drift velocity problems in electrical circuits.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic electrical concepts such as current and charge
  • Familiarity with the formula for drift velocity in conductors
  • Knowledge of electron concentration and its significance in conductivity
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations for problem-solving
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the drift velocity formula in more detail
  • Explore the relationship between current density and drift velocity
  • Learn about the effects of temperature on electron mobility in conductors
  • Investigate the role of different materials in electron concentration and conductivity
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics or electrical engineering, educators teaching concepts of electricity and magnetism, and anyone interested in understanding the behavior of electrons in conductive materials.

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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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