Electron moving in a Copper Wire

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the average distance an electron moves in the copper wires of a 299 W toaster during an alternating current cycle. The power cord has a diameter of 1.7 mm and operates at a standard frequency of 60 Hz and voltage of 120 V. Key equations used include Prms=IrmsVrms and I0=npAVdmax, where the challenge lies in determining the value of n, the number of conduction electrons per unit volume in copper. Participants are encouraged to research "Copper Conduction Electrons" to find relevant information on calculating n.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of alternating current (AC) circuits
  • Familiarity with electrical power equations
  • Knowledge of electron mobility in conductive materials
  • Basic grasp of the properties of copper as a conductor
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "Copper Conduction Electrons" to find the value of n
  • Learn about "Electron Drift Velocity" in conductive materials
  • Study "AC Circuit Analysis" techniques for better understanding
  • Explore "Ohm's Law" and its application in AC circuits
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electrical engineering, physics enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding electron movement in conductive materials, particularly in AC circuits.

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Homework Statement


How far does an average electron move along the wires of a 299 W toaster during an alternating current cycle? The power cord has copper wires of diameter 1.7 mm and is plugged into a standard 60 Hz 120 V ac outlet.


Homework Equations


Prms=IrmsVrms
Ipeak=I0=Irms(sqrt 2)
I0=npAVdmax
Vdmax=Aw=A(2pif)

The Attempt at a Solution


I figured out what equations I had to use, and I placed them above. I started to solve for I0, but I do not know how to find n.
 
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SgtMousse said:

Homework Statement


How far does an average electron move along the wires of a 299 W toaster during an alternating current cycle? The power cord has copper wires of diameter 1.7 mm and is plugged into a standard 60 Hz 120 V ac outlet.


Homework Equations


Prms=IrmsVrms
Ipeak=I0=Irms(sqrt 2)
I0=npAVdmax
Vdmax=Aw=A(2pif)

The Attempt at a Solution


I figured out what equations I had to use, and I placed them above. I started to solve for I0, but I do not know how to find n.

Hint -- google Copper Conduction Electrons, and you will find some pages that will answer the question about the number n for you...
 

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