Determining current and drift speed

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the current and electron drift speed in a wire with a diameter of 2.0 mm. The user successfully derived the density of the conductor using the equation n = I/(Aev_d) and found that n equals 2 x 10^28 m^-3. Additionally, the relationship between the current I_2 and drift speed v_d2 was established as I_2 = 20000v_d2. The user concluded that since I_2 equals I_1, this relationship simplifies the problem significantly.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric current and drift velocity
  • Familiarity with the equations I = J/A and J = n*e*v_d
  • Knowledge of the concept of charge density in conductors
  • Basic skills in algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the derivation of current density in conductors
  • Learn about the relationship between current and drift speed in different materials
  • Investigate the effects of temperature on electron drift velocity
  • Study the impact of wire diameter on current capacity and drift speed
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Students studying physics, electrical engineering majors, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of current flow and electron behavior in conductive materials.

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[SOLVED] Determining current and drift speed

Homework Statement



http://img162.imageshack.us/img162/145/problemrg5.jpg

The two wires in the above figure are made of the same material. What are the current and the electron drift speed in the 2.0mm-diameter segment of the wire.

Homework Equations



I = J/A; J = n*e*v_d where n is the density of the conductor in m^-3 and v_d is drift velocity.

The Attempt at a Solution

I was able to find the density of the conductor:

n = \frac{I_{1}}{(Aev_{d_1})} = 2*10^{28}

Also, I reached to this relationship between I_2 and v_{d_2}:

I_{2} = 20000v_{d_2}

What to do next? Appreciate any pointers, and thanks in advance.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Ah, again, I_2 = I_1. *smacks head* This solves the problem.
 

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