Electric Current - Finding # of Electrons

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the number of electrons passing a point in a circuit given a current of 4.333 A over 7 minutes. The user initially attempts to use the formula n = I*t/q but finds discrepancies in their results. They express uncertainty about whether the issue lies in significant digits or the method used, noting that both approaches yield similar but incorrect answers. The conversation highlights the importance of accuracy in constants and the potential impact of rounding on the final result. Ultimately, the user seeks confirmation on the correctness of their calculations and methods.
calvert11
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Homework Statement



a) The potential difference in a simple circuit is 13 V and the resistance is 3 . What current I flows in the circuit? Answer in units of A.

(I got I = 4.333 which is correct)

b) How many electrons pass a given point in the circuit in 7 min?

Homework Equations



I=\DeltaQ/\Deltat
n = I*t/q

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm having trouble with Part B of the question.

I used n = I*t/q, so 4.333A*420sec/1.6e^-19 = 1.1374e^22

Also, one ampere is 1 C per second, so 4.333*6.241e^18*420sec = 1.1357e^22

But both answers are wrong.
 
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The first method looks good to me. (I'm not familiar with the mole of electrons approach.)
Could it be a significant digits problem? The given numbers suggest rounding to 1 or 2 digits. If you want 5 digits, better find a more accurate value for e.
 
Delphi51 said:
The first method looks good to me. (I'm not familiar with the mole of electrons approach.)
Could it be a significant digits problem? The given numbers suggest rounding to 1 or 2 digits. If you want 5 digits, better find a more accurate value for e.
Sigfigs aren't checked. But generally, the more digits the better.

Other than that, you don't see anything wrong with my answer?
 
I got the same answer.
 
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