When a current is passed through a conductor, will it be charged?

In summary, when a current is passed through a conductor, the number of free charge carriers is equal to the number of opposite charge on the nearly stationary ions, resulting in a net charge of zero. This is because the excess charge carriers would have to come from somewhere, which is not possible in a closed circuit. Additionally, the net charge is frame dependent and is referred to as magnetism rather than charge.
  • #1
Rozwind
Please explain me the following answer

Q)When a current is passed through a conductor, will it be charged?
A)Charge carriers participating in conduction in a conductor are not excess charge carriers. The number of free charge carriers is equal to the number of opposite charge on the nearly stationary ions of the material such that the net charge is zero, whether or not a current is passed through the conductor.

Also, explain me why is the net charge zero even if current is passed through the conductor.
 
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  • #2
What is your opinion and what have you found out for yourself?
Ask yourself what would happen if there were an excess charge on a conductor in a circuit. Where would it have come from?
 
  • #3
Rozwind said:
...explain me why is the net charge zero even if current is passed through the conductor.
When current flows, the charge carriers (from your point of view) bunch up but, to avoid confusion, since this net charge is frame dependent, it's called magnetism, not charge.
 
  • #4
sophiecentaur said:
...if there were an excess charge on a conductor in a circuit. Where would it have come from?
The excess charge could come from electrons entering one end of a conductor before a like amount leave the other end.
 

1. Is it possible for a current to pass through a conductor without it being charged?

Yes, it is possible for a current to pass through a conductor without it being charged. This occurs when there is a complete circuit and the conductor is not connected to a power source or battery.

2. How does a conductor become charged when a current is passed through it?

A conductor becomes charged when a current is passed through it due to the movement of electrons. As the current flows through the conductor, electrons are pushed and pulled, resulting in an accumulation of charges on the surface of the conductor.

3. Is the amount of charge on a conductor dependent on the strength of the current passing through it?

Yes, the amount of charge on a conductor is dependent on the strength of the current passing through it. The stronger the current, the greater the charge accumulation on the conductor.

4. How long does it take for a conductor to become charged when a current is passed through it?

The time it takes for a conductor to become charged when a current is passed through it depends on various factors such as the strength of the current, the length and thickness of the conductor, and the material it is made of. Generally, the larger the conductor and the stronger the current, the faster it will become charged.

5. Can a conductor retain its charge after the current passing through it is turned off?

Yes, a conductor can retain its charge after the current passing through it is turned off. This is known as static electricity and occurs when the charges on the surface of the conductor are not neutralized. The conductor will retain its charge until it comes into contact with an object with an opposite charge, or until the charges dissipate over time.

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