Curent densitys relation to drift velocity

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the current density of a beam containing doubly charged positive ions. The current density is determined using the formula J=I/A=nqv, where n is the ion density, q is the charge, and v is the drift velocity. A participant initially miscalculated the conversion of ion density from particles per cubic centimeter to particles per cubic meter, which led to confusion about the correct values. After clarification, it was confirmed that 1 cubic meter contains significantly more particles than 1 cubic centimeter, resolving the misunderstanding. The conversation emphasizes the importance of unit conversion in physics calculations.
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Homework Statement


A beam contains 4.0x10^8 doubly charged positive ions per cubic centimeter, all of which are moving north with a speed of 1.2x10^5 m/s.

(a) What is the magnitude of the current density ?
(b) What is its direction?
(c) What additional quantity or quantities are needed to calculate the total current in this ion beam?

Homework Equations


J=I/A=nqv (v = drift velocity)


The Attempt at a Solution


Well I tried this (4.0e8)(2)(1.6e-19)(1.2e5) which I thought would give what I wanted but apparently not. I was thinking by looking a dimensional analysis that it has something to do with the seconds in the velocity but I am not sure?
 
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Take care with the units of length. The ion density is given in particles/cubic centimeters, the velocity is given in m/s. The current density has to be in C/m2.

ehild
 
Ok I did that I converted (4e8) in particles/ cubic centimeter to 400 particles per cubic meter but it still did not give the right answer?
 
There are 400000000 particles in one cm3. How many cm3 makes one m3? (which one is bigger? 1 cm3 or 1 m3?) Where are there more particles? In a big volume or in the small volume?

ehild
 
Huh wait your confusing me I though 400 cubic meters was correct is it not?
 
What was 400 cubic meters?

ehild
 
im saying the conversion from cubic centimeters to cubic meters is 400
 
I got it thanks for all the help! WOOT
 

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