How Do Electrons and Ions Affect Current Calculation at Point A?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the current at a specific point A in a conducting material, considering the flow of electrons and ions. The problem involves understanding the contributions of both types of charge carriers to the overall current.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the definitions of current and charge flow, questioning the specifics of charge per unit time and the nature of the charges involved. There is an attempt to clarify the relationship between the flow of electrons and ions and their respective contributions to current.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered insights into handling the charges separately and considering their directions in the calculation of total current. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored, particularly regarding the charge of the ions and the flow of negative versus positive charge.

Contextual Notes

There is an assumption regarding the charge of the ions being twice that of the electrons, which may influence the calculations discussed. The original poster expresses uncertainty about the problem setup and seeks guidance.

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Homework Statement



Imagine a point A on a piece of conducting material. If r electrons flow to the right of A and l ions flow to the left, what is the current at A?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



No idea! Please help!
 
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Do you mean that r electrons flow to the right of A and l ions flow to the left per time unit? What is the charge of the ion?
 
Last edited:
Yes, per unit time.

Let's assume that the charge of the ion is twice the charge on the electron.
 
Current is the flow rate of positive charge.
In case of negative charge, current flows opposite to the flow of charge.

Handle each charge separately.

If I ions flow past A per unit time, how much charge has flown past A per unit time?
That gives you the current due to I.

Do the same for the electrons, this time current would flow opposite to their flow.

Then, add up the currents due to the ions and the electrons to get the total current.
 

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