Does an Electric Field Between Two Conductors Guarantee a Current?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between electric fields and current flow in conductors, specifically comparing a conductor at eight volts with one at zero volts. The original poster questions whether the presence of an electric field guarantees a current in the system and seeks clarification on the direction of that current.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster expresses uncertainty about the connection between electric fields and current, suggesting a belief that a current is likely present but lacking confidence in their reasoning. Other participants discuss scenarios where current would flow if the conductors are connected, and question the implications of having no physical connection between the conductors.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active with various perspectives being explored. Some participants provide insights into how current would behave under different conditions, while others emphasize the importance of physical connections in determining current flow. There is no explicit consensus on the original poster's question, but guidance is being offered regarding the conditions necessary for current to exist.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the concepts of electric fields and current flow without specific equations or established methods, indicating a learning environment where foundational understanding is being developed.

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Homework Statement



More of a general question:
I have a situation where I have a conductor at eight volts and a conductor with zero volts. Just because there is an electric field, does that mean there is an electric current present in the system? And what is the direction?

Homework Equations



None

The Attempt at a Solution



We just got introduced to this and I can't seem to find a reasoning. In my mind, I believe that there most likely must be a current, but I'm so green at this that I'm not sure.
 
Last edited:
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Well, if you connect them there would be a current. If the condctors were connected to a voltage source, such as a battery, the current would continue to flow. If you connect them with a resistance Ohms law will tell you how big the current is.
If the conductors would be just 2 pieces of wire lying on a table there would only be current for a very short time if you connected them until their potentials became the same.
 
Okay, we have a set-up similar to this

http://www.sm.luth.se/~urban/master/Theory/image122.gif

only, instead of the negative charge, we have no voltage there. Is there for sure a current if this electric field exists?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Since nothing connects the charges there will be no current
 

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