Current in DC Circuit: 8.41 x 10^19 Electrons in 2s

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the current in a DC circuit based on the number of electrons passing a point in a given time frame. The subject area pertains to electric current and charge, specifically relating to the conversion of electron count to amperes.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between the number of electrons and current, with some attempting to apply formulas involving charge and time. Questions arise regarding the charge of an electron and the conversion to amperes.

Discussion Status

Multiple approaches to the problem are being explored, with participants providing insights on how to convert electron counts to current. Some guidance on using the charge of an electron and the definition of an ampere has been shared, though no consensus on a final solution has been reached.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on understanding the definitions and relationships between charge, current, and the number of electrons, with some participants noting the need for specific values such as the charge of an electron.

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Homework Statement



In a DC circuit 8.41 x 10^19 electrons travel through a point in the circuit in two seconds. What current is in the circuit?

Homework Equations

I'm not sure at all on this. I was thinking it would be something like (charge*#electrons)/time, but I don't have a value for the charge

The Attempt at a Solution



Would it possibly be: (6.241 509 629 152 65×10^18 * 8.41 x 10^19)/2Thanks,

Jason
 
Last edited:
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6.241 509 629 152 65×10^18

This is how many electrons are needed for one coulomb of charge. What you want is to find the charge of one electron, if you are going to use your equation the way it is.
 
As I understand the problem you need to convert the number of electrons to amperes. The ampere is a coulomb/sec and 1 electron is 1.602e-19 coul. I get 6.75 amps.
 
1 ampere is 6.24x1018 electrons passing a point in a second. Since you know how many pass in two seconds you need to divide half the number given in the question by the number given in the definition.

EDIT: All posted in the same minute and I'm last :rolleyes: Figures
 
Thanks to everyone! It's funny, I think I might have figured out before reading your posts.

See what you think:

=((# of electrons)*(charge of electron))/time

=
((8.41*10^19)*(1.6*10^-19))/2

=6.728


...at least it maches up with one of the possible solutions :)

Thanks again,

Jason
 
It was right...big thanks to everyone.

Jason
 

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