How Do You Calculate Electric Energy Density Near a Copper Wire?

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the electric energy density near a copper wire, the equation u = (1/2) ε0 E² is used, where E is derived from the electric field of an infinite line charge. The challenge lies in determining the charge density, λ, which is necessary for calculating E. The current of 28 A and the wire's diameter of 3.4 mm provide some parameters, but λ must be found to proceed. It is suggested that the electric field at the surface is equivalent to that inside the wire, which is influenced by the current and the properties of copper. The discussion emphasizes the need to relate the current to the electric field within the wire for accurate calculations.
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Homework Statement


Calculate the electric energy density at the surface of a 3.4 mm diameter copper wire carrying a 28 A current.

Homework Equations


u = (1/2) ε0 E2

The Attempt at a Solution


With the electric energy density equation, I substituted in the equation for the electric field for an infinite line charge:

u = (1/2) ε0 ( λ/ (ε0 2 π r ))2

I have all the information except for the charge density, λ. I know that it's a copper wire, but how can I find what λ is with that information?
 
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I think that you are supposed to assume that the electric field at the surface of the wire is the same as the electric field inside the wire. The electric field inside the wire pushes the electrons through the copper.

Can you determine E inside the wire from the current, the diameter of the wire, and the properties of copper?
 
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