Negative Resistance: Is It Real or Just Fringe?

In summary, the conversation discusses a Wikipedia article referencing a composite configuration of carbon nanotubes that exhibits anomalous results similar to a static negative resistor. It also mentions Gabriel Kron, a scientist for General Electric, who is believed to have built a negative resistor for the US Navy's Network Analyser. The conversation also touches on the topic of tunneling diodes and negative differential resistance. While some find the concept of a negative resistor unusual, it is not considered a fringe case and is supported by the laws of physics. Negative differential resistance means that a slight increase in voltage causes less current to flow, and a true negative resistance supplies power.
  • #1
Nereid
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From wikipedia, there is a reference to "composite configuration of carbon nanotubes which appears to exhibit anomalous results which resemble a static negative resistor", and "Gabriel Kron, while a scientist for General Electric, is thought to have built a negative resistor for the US Navy's "Network Analyser"."

Is there more to this (or is it a 'fringe' case)? If the latter, does it really belong in wiki?
 
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  • #2
it's not a fringe case. look up the tunneling diode link at the wiki article. tunneling diodes do have a (U,I)-region like that.
 
  • #3
Tunnel Diode is not a static device, its Imposssible within the laws of Physics to have a static negative resistor.
 
  • #4
As far as I can understand the Wikipeida arttical it's talking about negative differential resistance and therefore I don't really find it unbeliavabele (perhaps a bit unusual).
 
  • #5
Yes, negative differential resistance means that although it has a positive
resistance, a slight increase inthe voltage causes less current to flow.

A true negative resistance supplies power.
 

1. Is negative resistance a real phenomenon in science?

Yes, negative resistance is a well-established concept in physics and electrical engineering. It is a property exhibited by certain materials or electrical components where the current decreases as the voltage increases, contrary to Ohm's Law.

2. What are some examples of negative resistance?

Some examples of negative resistance include tunnel diodes, Gunn diodes, and negative differential resistance devices. These components can be used in various applications such as oscillators, amplifiers, and switches.

3. How does negative resistance differ from positive resistance?

Negative resistance differs from positive resistance in that the current and voltage have an inverse relationship. In a positive resistance device, the current and voltage have a direct relationship, following Ohm's Law.

4. Can negative resistance be observed in natural phenomena?

Yes, negative resistance can be observed in natural phenomena. For example, certain types of lightning strikes have been found to exhibit negative resistance behavior. Some biological systems, such as neurons, also exhibit negative resistance properties.

5. What are the potential applications of negative resistance?

Negative resistance has various potential applications in technology, including in electronic circuits, telecommunications, and energy harvesting. It also has potential uses in medical devices, such as pacemakers and brain implants.

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