What is drift velocity and how is it derived in electricity?

Thread starter manogyana25
Start date Mar 21, 2015
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Drift Drift velocity Electricity Velocity

In summary, drift velocity is the average velocity at which free charges in a conductor move in response to an electric field. It can be calculated by dividing the current density by the charge carrier density and the charge of the carriers, or by multiplying the mobility of the charge carriers by the electric field strength. Factors such as the strength of the electric field, the type of material, and the temperature can affect the drift velocity. It is not the same for all charge carriers within the same material due to differences in mass and charge. Understanding drift velocity is important in explaining how electricity flows through circuits and how the electric field influences this movement.

Mar 21, 2015

manogyana25

Can anyone please explain what is drift velocity. I was absent for that class. I need a detailed explanation and derivation of that. Please help.

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Mar 21, 2015

nasu

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http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drift_velocity

Mar 21, 2015

Dale

Mentor

Insights Author

After reviewing the link please come back with a more specific question.

What is drift velocity?

Drift velocity is the average velocity at which free charges in a conductor move in response to an electric field.

How is drift velocity calculated?

Drift velocity is calculated by dividing the current density by the charge carrier density and the charge of the carriers. It can also be calculated by multiplying the mobility of the charge carriers by the electric field strength.

What factors affect drift velocity?

The factors that affect drift velocity include the strength of the electric field, the type of material the charges are moving through, and the temperature of the material.

Is drift velocity the same for all charge carriers?

No, the drift velocity can vary for different types of charge carriers within the same material. This is due to differences in mass and charge of the carriers.

What is the significance of drift velocity in electrical circuits?

Drift velocity is an important concept in understanding the flow of electricity in circuits. It helps to explain how charges move through a conductor and how the strength of the electric field can affect this movement.