Radial current in a curved wire?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the behavior of direct current in a curved wire with finite thickness and the potential for radial current due to curvature, referred to as "charge inertia." It is suggested that while inductance may cause a slight resistance to changes in current direction, there should be no net radial current since there is no outlet for it. A negative charge may accumulate on the outer surface, counteracting any radial effects quickly. Participants express interest in finding references that discuss radial polarization in curved wires, noting that most literature focuses on infinitely thin coils or solenoids. The conversation highlights the need for more research on this specific phenomenon.
jpo
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Direct current flows through curved wire with finite thickness. Will there be current in radial direction due to curvature (so to say, "charge inertia")?
I suppose this radial current will be due to self-induction.
 
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jpo said:
Direct current flows through curved wire with finite thickness. Will there be current in radial direction due to curvature (so to say, "charge inertia")?
I suppose this radial current will be due to self-induction.

There shouldn't be net current because there is nowhere for the current to go in that direction. A slight negative charge would build up on the outside that would cancel out the effect of any "charge inertia" quickly.

But yes, I think inductance would cause the basic effect you're describing, that the current would slightly resist turning.
 
Thank you for your reply. Yes, I was also thinking of "polarization" due to negative charge build-up on the outward radial end.

Do you know a reference text/paper that describes this? Usually when people speak of coils or solenoids they are always considered infinitely thin
 
I have never read anything about radial polarization before. If anyone has a reference, please share...
 
Anyone?
 

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