Electric Current and Potential Difference

AI Thread Summary
When an external electrical potential difference is applied to a conductor, electrons flow in the opposite direction of the current. The discussion centers on whether this flow affects the number of free electrons in the conductor. Participants agree that the number of free electrons remains constant, as electrons leaving the conductor at one end are balanced by those entering at the other end. The resistance of the conductor is considered constant throughout this process. Overall, the consensus is that the free electron count does not decrease under these conditions.
Rozwind
when the external electrical potential difference is applied across the conductor ,electrons flow in the direction opposite to the current.Whether the number of free electrons in the conductor decrease?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hello Roz, :welcome:

A good question. Is it yours or has it been asked to you ? (if the latter, post in homework !)
For the answer, consider what the consequence would be for the charge (and thereby the voltage) on the conductor.
 
BvU said:
Hello Roz, :welcome:

A good question. Is it yours or has it been asked to you ? (if the latter, post in homework !)
For the answer, consider what the consequence would be for the charge (and thereby the voltage) on the conductor.
The question has been given in my textbook and consequences for the charge or voltage on conductor haven't been mentioned but the resistance is constant. I think the answer should be No. Am I correct?
 
Rozwind said:
I think the answer should be No
I agree. At the positive end of the conductor, just as many electrons leave as there are coming in at the other end.
 
BvU said:
I agree. At the positive end of the conductor, just as many electrons leave as there are coming in at the other end.
Ok. Thank You.
 
Next time: post in homework and make good use of the template there !
 
BvU said:
Next time: post in homework and make good use of the template there !
Actually, this isn't homework. I was reading the lesson beforehand.
 
My compliments ! good action. even so, PF considers these in-text questions and examples to fall under 'exercises' such as homework.
 
Back
Top