Ranking Current Densities: How Do Different Factors Affect Current Flow?

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The discussion focuses on ranking current densities in wires with varying radii and conductivities, emphasizing the formula for current density as current divided by cross-sectional area. The current densities for wires a, b, and c are ranked as Jb > Ja > Jc, while the participant struggles to incorporate conductivity for wire d. It is clarified that conductivity is not relevant for the current density ranking, as the current is provided for each case. However, conductivity does play a role in other contexts, such as determining electric field strength within a conductor. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the relationship between current, area, and conductivity in electrical analysis.
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Homework Statement
Rank in order, from the largest to the smallest, the current densities in these four wires, that have different radius and different electric conductivity
Relevant Equations
current density resistivity and resistance i guess
Homework Statement: Rank in order, from the largest to the smallest, the current densities in these four wires, that have different radius and different electric conductivity
Homework Equations: current density resistivity and resistance i guess

Screen Shot 2019-08-25 at 16.27.49.png

ja=I/πr2
jb=2I/πr2
jc=I/2πr2

Jb > ja > jc ...

i don't get how to use 2σ in order to find and compare the current density of d.
I know that
ρ=L/σπr2 but ...
 
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DottZakapa said:
i don't get how to use 2σ in order to find and compare the current density of d.
Do the same analysis as you did for a, b, and c. (Is the conductivity relevant?)
 
not taking care of it the result is correct, but could you briefly explain why is not relevant ? Does it becomes relevant only for the potential difference ?
 
Don't overthink what they are asking for: The current density is current/cross-sectional area. The current is given in each case!

For a different question, the conductivity can be relevant. For example, the electric field strength within the conductor would depend on the conductivity. (But they didn't ask that here.)
 
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ok thanks very gentle
 
Doc Al said:
current/surface area.
current/Cross Sectional area.
 
Tom.G said:
current/Cross Sectional area.
Oops! Thanks, @Tom.G; I'll correct that. :smile:
 
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