Trouble understanding derivation of current density

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The derivation of current density is defined by the equation Current Density = (I/A), where I represents current and A is the cross-sectional area. The current I is expressed as I = (Q/t) = (nVq)/t, indicating that total charge Q is the product of the number of charges n, the volume V, and the average charge q, divided by time t. The inclusion of the volume term V clarifies that n is the number of charges per unit volume, thus nV represents the total number of charges in the volume, leading to the final expression for current density as nvq.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric current and charge
  • Familiarity with the concept of current density
  • Knowledge of basic physics principles related to charge and volume
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between charge density and current density in electromagnetic theory
  • Explore the derivation of related equations in fluid dynamics
  • Learn about the implications of current density in semiconductor physics
  • Investigate the role of charge carriers in different materials
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of current density and its applications in various fields.

PsychonautQQ
Messages
781
Reaction score
10
Current Density = (I/A)
I = (Q/t) =
(nVq)/t
where n is the number of charges, V is the volume, q is the average charge and t is time.

nVq/t = n(Ax)q/t = nAvq
where v is velocity.

Current Density = (I/A)
(nAvq)/A = nvq

My question is on the step where it goes Q/t = nVq/t
Why does Q (total charge) not just equal nq? Why is there a volume term thrown in there?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
n must be the number of charges per unit volume, nV is the total number of charges, multiply by q and you get the total charge in the volume.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
689
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Replies
10
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
2K