Solving Resistivity Question: Determine Shunt Length

In summary, resistivity is an important factor in determining the appropriate shunt length for solving electrical measurements. It is a measure of material's resistance to the flow of electric current and can be calculated using the formula L = (R * A)/ρ. The resistivity of a material is affected by its composition, temperature, and impurities. Shunt length can be too long or too short, which can affect the accuracy of the measurement. One common mistake to avoid when solving for shunt length is using the wrong units for resistivity.
  • #1
brenfox
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Homework Statement


Determine the length of the shunt if the c.s.a of the copper is 25cm^2.


Homework Equations


R = ρ l/a
Resistance of shunt is 0.5μΩ

The Attempt at a Solution

Transposing to find l.
l = AR/ρ
=25^2x10^2 x 0.5x10-6/1.7x10-8
=7.4mm is the length of the shunt. Does this look feasible? Any guidance will be well received.
 
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  • #2
Please use units, this makes it much easier to check which number you put where.
I think there is a factor of 10 missing somewhere.
 
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1. What is resistivity and why is it important in solving shunt length?

Resistivity is a measure of the resistance of a material to the flow of electric current. It is important in solving shunt length because it helps determine the resistance of the material being used for the shunt, which is necessary for calculating the appropriate length.

2. How is shunt length calculated using resistivity?

Shunt length can be calculated by using the formula L = (R * A)/ρ, where L is the shunt length, R is the desired resistance, A is the cross-sectional area of the shunt material, and ρ is the resistivity of the material.

3. What factors affect the resistivity of a material?

The resistivity of a material is affected by its composition, temperature, and impurities. Materials with higher resistivity will require longer shunt lengths to achieve the desired resistance.

4. Can shunt length be too long or too short?

Yes, shunt length can be too long or too short. If the shunt length is too long, it may introduce additional resistance and affect the accuracy of the measurement. If it is too short, it may not provide enough resistance and also affect the accuracy of the measurement.

5. Are there any common mistakes to avoid when solving for shunt length?

One common mistake to avoid is using the wrong units for resistivity. Resistivity is typically measured in ohm-meters, but some materials may have values in ohms per inch or other units. It is important to double check the units and convert if necessary before using the resistivity value in the calculation.

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