Why Does Resistance Increase with Temperature in Conductors?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between temperature and resistance in conductors, specifically focusing on a lab investigating voltage across a copper resistor and a superconductor when cooled with liquid nitrogen. The original poster seeks to understand why resistance increases with temperature, noting a lack of satisfactory explanations in their research.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the role of thermal motion of metal ions and free electrons in resistance. Questions are raised about the definition and impact of resistivity on resistance, particularly in relation to temperature changes.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the mechanisms behind resistance and resistivity, suggesting that thermal motion affects electron movement. However, the discussion remains open with further questions about the underlying principles and complexities at low temperatures.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses confusion regarding the explanations found in their research, indicating a desire for deeper understanding rather than just stating facts. There is also a mention of the lab context, which may impose specific constraints on the discussion.

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currently we have been studying mechanic physics and the teacher though that it would be fun to do a fun electricity related lab. the lab was to investigate the voltage across a copper resistor and a superconductor when the temperature is brought down with liquid nitrogen. my question is why does resistance increase as temperature increase. everywhere i have searched just tells me this fact but doesn't really explain why.
 
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In simple terms the resistance in metals is due to the free surface electrons being bounced around by the thermal motion of the metal ions. At lower temperatures this motion is reduced so there is less to disturb the free motion of the electrons.

When you get to very low temperatures it gets more complicated.
 
i also have another question. resistance equals roe(l/a). isn't roe the most affected by temperature? but i am not sure why
 
Rho is resistivity - which is just a measure of the resistance to motion of electrons in the material for exactly the reasons I just wrote.

L / A is just a term to include how far they have to go (L) and how much space there is for them to move (A)
 

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