Effect of water flow on electrical resistance

[mikeyb555]

I have been investigating the effect the flow rate of water has on the electrical resistance of the water. My hypothesis is that the faster the water flow rate the lower the electrical resistance.

I have tested this using a fairly basic rig to regulate different flow rates and a multimeter and so far my results have supported the hypothesis.

Problem is I cannot really fathom why. I originally thought that the drop in resistance could be explained by the water moving the electricity faster between the two points, but this doesn’t really explain the large drop in resistance I am recording.
Any insights into this would be really helpful, I am finding it hard to continue the investigation without a reasonable explanation.

Thanks

 

[Bob S]

Although there may be no direct effect of the flow rate of water on the resistance of water, the resistance of water can have an effect on the flow rate. If water has a resistance, like ocean water, then if you flow a current I through ithe water, and have a large magnetic field B orthogonal to the current, then there will be a force (propulsion) perpendicular to both the current and magnetic field. This is the Lorentz force F = I x B. Google "magnetohydrodynamic propulsion" for information,

 

[astrokreng]

for sharing your research on the effect of water flow on electrical resistance. Your hypothesis and results are certainly intriguing. From a scientific perspective, there are a few potential explanations for this phenomenon.

One possible explanation could be the change in temperature of the water as it flows at different rates. Water temperature can affect its electrical conductivity and resistance. As the water flows faster, it may cool down, resulting in a decrease in resistance.

Another factor to consider is the presence of impurities in the water. These impurities, such as minerals or pollutants, can affect the electrical resistance of water. As the water flows faster, it may be able to carry more of these impurities, resulting in a decrease in resistance.

Additionally, the physical movement of the water molecules as they flow could also play a role in reducing resistance. The faster the water flows, the more turbulent the movement of the molecules, which could disrupt the flow of electricity and lead to a decrease in resistance.

It is also important to note that the relationship between water flow rate and electrical resistance may not be a simple linear one. There could be other factors at play, such as the size and shape of the container, the type of electrodes used, and the distance between them. These variables could all impact the results and should be taken into consideration in future experiments.

In order to gain a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms at play, it may be helpful to conduct further experiments with controlled variables and to analyze the water samples for temperature and impurities. This could provide more insights into the specific factors contributing to the decrease in resistance.

Overall, your research provides interesting results and raises important questions for further investigation. Keep exploring and considering different factors that could potentially explain your findings. This type of scientific inquiry and curiosity is essential for advancing our understanding of the world around us. Good luck with your future experiments!