Free Electron Density Explained: What Is It?

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Free electron density refers to the number of free electrons per unit volume in a material, which is distinct from the flow of electrons. It is a measure of the probability of an electron being present at a specific location rather than a direct count of electrons in motion. The concept of electron density can be somewhat abstract, especially in chemistry, where it relates to probability rather than conventional density. Understanding free electron density involves knowing the atomic mass and density of the conductor, along with its diameter and drift velocity. Ultimately, the flow of electrons is not a necessary factor in defining free electron density.
Mk
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Is free electron denisty how many electrons per volume unit, flowing through? Do the electrons actually flow through? How do you find the free electron density with only known the diameter of a wire, and the drift velocity? I found out how to get it with the atomic mass, and density of the conductor, that leads me to believe that it is not the amount of flowing electrons at a time for a volume unit... Ok, now I found out electron density is the measure of the probability of an electron being present at a specific location, so does this mean electron density isn't really electron "density?"
 
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Free electron density is simply the number of free electrons per unit of volume. There's not much more too it than that. Whether they are flowing or not doesn't really matter.

Mk said:
Ok, now I found out electron density is the measure of the probability of an electron being present at a specific location, so does this mean electron density isn't really electron "density?"

In this particular context (chemistry) the electron density isn't a density in the way you're used to using it. It's something a little more abstract, namely having to do with probability, as you said.
 
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