Electron Drift in Copper Wire: 40m in 0.020mm/s = Days?

AI Thread Summary
The drift speed of electrons in a copper wire is about 0.020 mm/s. Given a total wire length of 40 meters, the time for an electron to travel from the negative terminal of the battery to the positive terminal can be calculated using the equation relating distance, time, and speed. The discussion focuses on determining how long this journey takes in days. The calculation reveals that it would take several days for a single electron to complete the circuit. Understanding electron drift speed is crucial for grasping electrical conduction in circuits.
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The drift speed of the electrons in a copper wire running from a battery to a light bulb and back is approximately 0.020 mm/s. The battery is at the front of the classroom and wire runs out of a perimeter of the room to the light bulb. The total length of wire is 40meters. How long would it take a single electron to drift from the negative terminal of the battery and back to the positive terminal? Express your answers in days as well.
 
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Do you know the equation that relates distance travelled, time and speed?
 
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