Find the resistance of a wire (conductor)

AI Thread Summary
When the diameter of a wire is halved, its cross-sectional area decreases, leading to an increase in resistance. The resistance is inversely proportional to the cross-sectional area, meaning that as the area decreases, resistance increases. The calculation shows that if the diameter is halved, the resistance becomes four times greater. There is a distinction between surface area and cross-sectional area, with the latter being crucial for determining resistance. Therefore, the correct answer to the homework question is D, indicating that resistance increases fourfold when the diameter is halved.
prishila
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Homework Statement


If the diameter of a wire (conductor) is dimidiated , then its resistance:
A Remains unchangable
B is diminiated
C Becomes two times greater
D Becomes 4 times greater

Homework Equations


R=constant*length/Surface

The Attempt at a Solution


Cross sectional area=pi r^2=pi (D/2)^2=piD^2/4
Then the resistance becomes 4 times greater.
But in my book the answer is C.
 
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Is the surface area really proportional to r^2?
 
Dr. Courtney said:
Is the surface area really proportional to r^2?
I think it is. Only if you consider pi to affect that
 
Are you confusing surface area and cross sectional area?
 
Dr. Courtney said:
Are you confusing surface area and cross sectional area?
Can you tell me the difference. in my book it says Resistance is in disproportional to the cross section of the resistance.
 
prishila said:
Can you tell me the difference. in my book it says Resistance is in disproportional to the cross section of the resistance.
Surface area means area of the entire surface of the conductor. Cross sectional area is the area "through" which the current flows. Resistance is inversely proportional to the cross sectional area of the conductor.
 
cnh1995 said:
Surface area means area of the entire surface of the conductor. Cross sectional area is the area "through" which the current flows. Resistance is inversely proportional to the cross sectional area of the conductor.
I understand. But how can this affect the solution of my exercise?
 
prishila said:
I understand. But how can this affect the solution of my exercise?
If "dimidiated" means halved, I agree that the answer is D.
 
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