Watch a Fascinating Demo of Collisions Inside a Conductor

In summary, a conductor is a material that allows the flow of electric charge or heat through it. Collisions inside a conductor occur when free electrons collide with the atoms of the conductor, creating an electric current. The purpose of conducting a demo of these collisions is to visually demonstrate the concept of conductivity. Temperature affects collisions inside a conductor by increasing the number of collisions and decreasing conductivity. Collisions inside a conductor can be controlled by changing the temperature, applying an external electric field, or altering the material's properties.
  • #1
pbtami
2
0
I remember seeing a demo of collisions inside a conductor. It was a long board with nails representing the atom positions (a square lattice arrangement) and you would put a hand full of marbles at the top. The marbles will slide down but since they keep hitting the nails the velocity will be constant.
Does anyone have a link to a video showing this demo?
Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Try "marble electric circuit model.mpg":
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
Thanks!
 

1. What is a conductor?

A conductor is a material that allows the flow of electric charge or heat through it. Examples of conductors include metals, graphite, and some solutions.

2. How do collisions occur inside a conductor?

Collisions inside a conductor occur when free electrons, which are negatively charged particles, collide with the atoms of the conductor. This causes the electrons to move in a zigzag pattern, creating an electric current.

3. What is the purpose of conducting a demo of collisions inside a conductor?

The purpose of conducting this demo is to visually demonstrate the movement of free electrons and the resulting electric current inside a conductor. This helps to better understand the concept of conductivity and how electricity flows through materials.

4. How does temperature affect collisions inside a conductor?

As temperature increases, the atoms in a conductor vibrate more, making it more difficult for electrons to move freely. This increases the number of collisions between electrons and atoms, resulting in a decrease in conductivity.

5. Can collisions inside a conductor be controlled?

Yes, collisions inside a conductor can be controlled by changing the temperature, applying an external electric field, or altering the material's properties. For example, adding impurities can increase the number of collisions and decrease conductivity, while increasing the number of free electrons can enhance conductivity.

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