Radial current in a curved wire?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of direct current in a curved wire with finite thickness, specifically exploring the possibility of radial current due to the wire's curvature and the concept of "charge inertia." Participants consider the implications of self-induction and charge polarization in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes that there may be a radial current due to curvature, attributing it to "charge inertia" and self-induction.
  • Another participant argues that there shouldn't be a net radial current because there is no outlet for it, suggesting that a slight negative charge would accumulate on the outer side to counteract any radial current.
  • A third participant acknowledges the idea of polarization due to negative charge build-up on the outward radial end and seeks references on the topic.
  • One participant expresses unfamiliarity with the concept of radial polarization and requests references from others.
  • A later post simply asks if anyone has further information or references on the subject.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the existence and implications of radial current in curved wires, with no consensus reached on the topic. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the nature and effects of radial polarization.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the lack of references or established literature on radial polarization in curved wires, indicating a potential gap in existing knowledge or 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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