How Do You Calculate the Resistance of a Copper Sheet Given Its Dimensions?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electrical resistance of a copper sheet with a volume of 1cm³ and a thickness of 0.5mm, using the resistivity value of 1.69x10-8 Ohm metres. The resistance formula R = ρL/A is applied, where L is the length and A is the cross-sectional area. The participants highlight the necessity of defining the shape of the copper sheet to accurately determine L and A, particularly when considering the direction of current flow through the material.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrical resistance and resistivity concepts
  • Familiarity with the formula R = ρL/A
  • Basic knowledge of geometric shapes and volume calculations
  • Awareness of current flow direction in conductive materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the impact of different geometries on resistance calculations
  • Learn about the properties of copper, including its resistivity variations
  • Explore practical applications of resistance calculations in electrical engineering
  • Study the effects of temperature on the resistivity of metals
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or electrical engineering, electrical engineers, and anyone involved in materials science or electrical circuit design will benefit from this discussion.

T7
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Hi,

Part of a question I am working on asks me to "calculate the resistance of 1cm^3 of copper in the form of a thin sheet 0.5mm thick (between the faces of the sheet), given a resistivity of 1.69x10^-8 Ohm metres".

Given that p = RA/L, it is clear that R = pL/A = 1.69x10^-8 x L/A. So far, so good. But I am not sure that I can obtain L and A from merely a volume (1cm^3) and a thickness without making some assumption about its shape (a square sheet, perhaps)? Am I missing something?

Thanks!
 
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T7,

What's the resistance of a 1cm x 2cm x 3cm piece of copper?
 
jdavel said:
T7,

What's the resistance of a 1cm x 2cm x 3cm piece of copper?

Doesn't it depend on which side the current is going through (ie. which sides make up the area)?
 
t7,

"Doesn't it depend on which side the current is going through (ie. which sides make up the area)?"

Absolutely! So, let's say the current is in the direction of the longest dimension (3cm). What's the resistance of that "wire"?
 

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