The discussion revolves around understanding the relationship between current, resistance, and potential difference in the context of lightning striking a tree compared to a lightning conductor. The problem involves concepts from electricity, specifically Ohm's Law and resistance calculations.
Participants have provided insights into the relationship between resistance and area, with some suggesting that the resistivity of materials plays a crucial role. There is an ongoing exploration of the variables involved, but no consensus has been reached on the correctness of the reasoning presented.
Participants note the differences in material properties and dimensions between trees and lightning conductors, which may influence the discussion. There is an emphasis on the need to consider the resistivity of the materials involved.
gangnamstyle said:Homework Statement
If lightning strikes a tree such that there is the same current through it as there was through the lightning conductor, then a much larger potential difference exists between top and bottom of the tree. Explain why this is so.
The Attempt at a Solution
Is this something got to do with area ? R=pl/A ?
How do you explain this ?
gangnamstyle said:This is how I answered :
The tree has a smaller area. From the equation ( R=pl/A ), when A is small, resistance is higher because they're indirectly propotional to each other. From equation ( V= IR ), when R increases, p.d. increases.
Not sure whether correct or not. Otherwise, how would you answer it ?