Freeing Electrons from Wires: A How-To Guide

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Freeing all electrons from a wire is theoretically impossible without extreme measures, such as using an atomic bomb, as it would result in a significant release of energy. Attempting to remove electrons will only yield a small number, leading to detectable forces due to the remaining electrons. The Coulomb force equation illustrates the immense energy involved in separating charges, indicating that even a minimal separation can produce substantial force. The discussion raises questions about whether the focus is on all electrons or just the free-moving ones in the metal. Ultimately, the complexities of electron behavior and forces make complete separation unfeasible.
karawan
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can i empty a wire from its free electron.
 
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Yes but only with an atomic bomb.
 
no, not possible statistically.
 
Did you consider the energy involved or the force?
The force between two point charges is Q1 Q2/ (4 π ε0 R2) (the Coulomb force)
For a few grams of metal, you're talking of 1023 electrons separated by, a mm or so. Put the numbers into the formula
The force will blow the top of your head off.

Under normal circumstances you only separate a very few of the total number of electrons from the atoms in a piece of wire and you still get a detectable force. When you want to take ALL of them, you get an enormous value for the force. I'll leave you to do the calculation.
 
Just to clarify for myself, is this talking about ALL the electrons in the metal, or only the free ones that freely move around the metal?
 

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