Why Don't Electrons Leave Metal When Connected to Positive Terminal?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the behavior of free electrons in metals when connected to a positive terminal of a battery. It is established that electrons do not flow towards the positive terminal unless there is a complete circuit, which includes a connection to the negative terminal. The presence of an electric field within the battery and the requirement for a closed loop are critical factors that prevent electron movement. This phenomenon is rooted in the principles of electromotive force and circuit theory.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic electrical circuits
  • Familiarity with concepts of electric current and voltage
  • Knowledge of electron behavior in conductive materials
  • Basic principles of electromotive force (EMF)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of electric fields in batteries
  • Study Ohm's Law and its application in circuit analysis
  • Learn about the role of complete circuits in current flow
  • Explore the principles of electromotive force (EMF) in detail
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Students of physics, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamentals of electricity and circuit behavior.

Peter4444
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I can't understand this and i would be appreciate if somebody help me.

If in the metal we have a very big number of free electrons they should go to the positive therminal of the batery even if the other end of the wire is not conected to the negative therminal.What stops them.The copper wire have so much free electrons so it can act as a source of electricity and we all know that batery is the source of direct current.



According to the physics there is no current flow when you conect a wire just to the positive therminal.Now,the electrons are negative and they are moving and we have positive ions in the posivitive therminal.Why don't the electrons leave the metal.What stops them to go to the positive therminal.
 
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I believe that it is possible for free electrons to flow through the battery itself without the need for a wire, but it wouldn't be desirable.
 

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