Leakage Current Explained: What V, R, A, ρ, and d Stand For

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the interpretation of variables in the context of leakage current in a parallel plate capacitor, specifically focusing on the meanings of V, R, A, ρ, and d in the equation for current. The scope includes conceptual clarification and technical explanation related to electrical engineering principles.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes that V stands for voltage or volume, R for radius or resistance, A for area of the plate, ρ for density, and d for distance between the plates.
  • Another participant challenges these definitions, asserting that the meanings should be found in a textbook and questioning the reasoning behind the proposed definitions.
  • Several participants emphasize the importance of consulting a textbook for accurate definitions of the variables, suggesting that a lack of definitions in the source material may indicate it is not a reliable resource.
  • There is a mention of Ohm's law in relation to the equation for current, with a suggestion to verify the learning of this fundamental concept.
  • One participant expresses frustration about the lack of definitions in a Google book, indicating that it may not be a good source for learning the material.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the correct meanings of the variables in the equation. There is no consensus on the definitions, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the reliability of the source material.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the absence of clear definitions in the referenced material, which may lead to confusion about the variables used in the equation. The discussion highlights the necessity of proper definitions in educational resources.

gracy
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If the dielectric breakdown occurs in a parallel plate capacitor ,then leakage current is
##I##=##\frac{V}{R}##=##\frac{VA}{ρd}##
I want to know what does each stand for?
I=Current
V=Voltage or volume
R=radius or resistance
A=area of the plate
ρ=density
d=Distance between the plates
Am I correct?
 
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The correct meaning is given in whichever textbook you are reading. V is not the volume, R is not the radius, and ρ is not the density. What made you feel that V is the volume, for example?
 
Chandra Prayaga said:
The correct meaning is given in whichever textbook you are reading
No.
 
If you know please tell me.
 
Chandra Prayaga said:
What made you feel that V is the volume, for example?
I just guessed.
 
I should get hold of another textbook, if I were you. Every decent textbook defines the variables in its equations. Look at the back of the book for a list of symbols used. A letter is just a letter until it has been defined.
 
You may need to look back many pages to find the definition of each term, but they must be defined by the author writing the equation.
 
DaleSpam said:
You may need to look back many pages
Sometimes, it's a lot less trouble to ask PF. (?) :wink:
 
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But I have found this in a google book.And there is no definition in back pages.
 
  • #10
The first part is just Ohm's law. Check it out. Did you learn about it?
In the second part the resistance is expressed in terms of the parameters of the resistor.
 
  • #11
gracy said:
But I have found this in a google book.And there is no definition in back pages.
Then this book is not a good source for learning this material. You should not have to ask this type of question. The real problem to address here is the textbook you are using, not the specific formulas.

I am closing this thread. Please go to the textbook forum ( https://www.physicsforums.com/forums/science-and-math-textbooks.21/ ) and open a new thread or search for an old one with advice on a better resource.
 

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