Resistivity of tungsten filament

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the diameter of a tungsten filament based on its resistance and length, specifically within the context of electrical resistivity.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the formula for resistance in relation to resistivity and area, but questions arise regarding the conversion of units and the final result.

Discussion Status

Participants are engaged in exploring the calculations and unit conversions. Some guidance has been offered regarding unit conversion, and there is an acknowledgment of common mistakes in the process.

Contextual Notes

There is a specific requirement to express the final answer in millimeters, which may be contributing to confusion in the calculations.

rinarez7
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]1. A 1.3 cm length of tungsten filament in a small lightbulb has a resistance of 0.032 ohms. Find its diameter.
Given: Length= 1.3 cm= .013m
R= 0.032 ohms
resistivity= 5.6e-8 ohms*meter



2.
A= pi (r^2)
R= resistivity (Length/ Area)



The Attempt at a Solution


R= resistivity ( Length/ pi* (r^2) )
.032 ohms= (5.6e-8 ohms*meter) * (.o13m/ (pi* (r^2)) )
.032 (pi) (r^2) = 7.28e-10
.100530965 (r^2) = 7.28e-10
r= 8.509e-5
diameter= 2r= 1.701e-4m

It asks for the answer in mm, so I divided my answer by 1000= 1.7 e-7 mm, but it's not correct = (
What am I missing?
Thanks in advance!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
1m=1000mm...
 
wow do I feel silly! = / thanks
 
rinarez7 said:
wow do I feel silly! = / thanks

Those things happen to everybody from time to time! :biggrin: And you're welcome!
 

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