Unsure of how to approach this type of problem—Current densities in wires

  • Thread starter Thread starter The Blind Watchmaker
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Approach Type Wires
AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on understanding current densities in wires and the application of relevant equations such as J = nqvd and J = I/A. Participants express confusion about when to substitute variables like Q = It and seek clarity on the drift velocity formula, questioning if alternative forms exist. The relationship between wire resistance and factors like resistivity, length, and cross-sectional area is also explored. Additionally, there is a query about the consistency of drift velocity across different cables, leading to a mathematical comparison of their velocities. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in applying formulas and understanding the underlying principles of electrical current in wires.
The Blind Watchmaker
Messages
17
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Capture.PNG



1.PNG

Homework Equations


J = nqvd
J = I/A
Q = It

The Attempt at a Solution


Basically we check whether the variable that we are looking at is proportional or inversely proportional. However, at what part do we stop? Where is it okay to substitute say Q = It and where is it not? I am getting confused on this one.

Also, are there other forms of the velocity drift formula? Or is it strictly limited to vd = J/(nq) = I/(Anq) ? Thank you! :)
 

Attachments

  • Capture.PNG
    Capture.PNG
    12.3 KB · Views: 814
  • 1.PNG
    1.PNG
    27.8 KB · Views: 787
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
Do you know how to calculate the resistance of a wire? If the same material, you can find the relative resistance, then use Ohm's Law to find relative currents.
 
For the first question, use this equation:
The Blind Watchmaker said:
Q = It
And for the 2nd question, how does the resistance of each wire depend on the resistivity ρ the length L and the cross-sectional area A?

EDIT -- Beat out by @scottdave Again! :smile:
 
  • Like
Likes scottdave
berkeman said:
For the first question, use this equation:

And for the 2nd question, how does the resistance of each wire depend on the resistivity ρ the length L and the cross-sectional area A?

EDIT -- Beat out by @scottdave Again! :smile:
My answer is only IV true, but in the answer key it is IV and V. How does the velocity drift stay the same in both cables?

vd1/vd2 = J1/nq1⋅ nq2/J2
vd1/vd2 = q2/q1
vd1/vd2 = 4q1/q1 (based on the relation that I1 = 1/4 I2)
vd1 = 4vd2

That is why I am asking whether other formula for velocity drift exists or not (excluding the fermi velocity which is irrelevant here). Thanks!
 
I multiplied the values first without the error limit. Got 19.38. rounded it off to 2 significant figures since the given data has 2 significant figures. So = 19. For error I used the above formula. It comes out about 1.48. Now my question is. Should I write the answer as 19±1.5 (rounding 1.48 to 2 significant figures) OR should I write it as 19±1. So in short, should the error have same number of significant figures as the mean value or should it have the same number of decimal places as...
Thread 'A cylinder connected to a hanging mass'
Let's declare that for the cylinder, mass = M = 10 kg Radius = R = 4 m For the wall and the floor, Friction coeff = ##\mu## = 0.5 For the hanging mass, mass = m = 11 kg First, we divide the force according to their respective plane (x and y thing, correct me if I'm wrong) and according to which, cylinder or the hanging mass, they're working on. Force on the hanging mass $$mg - T = ma$$ Force(Cylinder) on y $$N_f + f_w - Mg = 0$$ Force(Cylinder) on x $$T + f_f - N_w = Ma$$ There's also...
Back
Top