The flow of charge inside a circuit.

[Yuqing]

Hi everyone. This isn't a homework question but rather a question of my understanding.

From what I know, a current is produced because charges in the current are moved through the electric field of another charge, such as the one produced by the battery. Why is it then that the charges are not accelerated as they pass through the wire as they should be in the presence of an electric field?

 

[rl.bhat]

Why is it then that the charges are not accelerated as they pass through the wire as they should be in the presence of an electric field?

They are accelerated, but for a short duration. In a short time they collide with other electrons, loss some energy, and may change their direction. But there is a net drift in the electrons in the direction of the applied electric field.

 

[nlightner]

Your understanding is correct. The flow of charge inside a circuit is driven by the presence of an electric field created by the battery. This electric field exerts a force on the charges, causing them to move through the circuit. However, the movement of charges through a wire is not the same as the movement of charges in a vacuum. In a wire, the charges are constantly colliding with the atoms and molecules of the wire's material, which slows down their acceleration. This results in a steady flow of charge, known as a current, rather than a rapid acceleration. Additionally, the resistance of the wire also plays a role in limiting the speed of the charges. Overall, the flow of charge inside a circuit is a delicate balance between the forces exerted by the electric field and the resistance of the circuit.