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Current, in a conductor, is defined as the rate of flow of charge across any cross-section of the
conductor.
I=Q/t where
Q=charge, t=time
If flow of charge is non-uniform,
I=dq/dt
You can also find the amount of charge flown in a certain time by finding the integral of Idt.
Drift velocity
The velocity with which the free electrons are drifted towards the positive terminal, under the
action of the applied field, is called the drift velocity of the free electrons.
v = (eV/ml)\t
Here, e is the charge of the electron, V is the potential difference, m is the mass, l is the length of
conductor and t is the relaxation time.
Here, you can notice that this formula can be written in many ways by manipulating the formulas
of e or V. Take care of this while solving problems, try to keep it as simple as you can. By writing
what is given and what is to be found, there’s no big deal solving problems related to it.
As I mentioned above, there’s also a famous relation between electric current and drift velocity.
I=nAve (you should try to derive this by your own)
Ohm’s law
According to ohm’s law,
V=IR
R=resistance
R=ρl/A
ρ = 1/σ
v = (qEt/m)
I = neAv
ρ = m/ne2\tau
σ = ne^2t/m
J= σ e
Current density
Current density J is equal to current divided by area.
J is a vector quantity.
J=I/A
J= σ e
dW =IVdT
P= I2R = V2/R
dW =energy dissipated
P =power
The potential difference of a cell is the difference of potential between two terminals when it is in
closed circuit.
E = V+IR
The resistance offered by the electrolyte of the cell when the electric current passes through it is
known as the internal resistance of the cell.
Kirchhoff’s law
Junction rule: At any junction, the sum of current entering the junction is equal to the sum of
current leaving the junction.
Loop rule: The algebraic sum of changes in potential around any closed loop involving resistors
and cells in a loop is zero.
Grouping of cells
Cells in parallel combination:
Wheatstone bridge
Meter bridge
In balanced condition,
R/S=x/100-x
So, that was the summary of the chapter current electricity. I hope this chapter won’t bother you
much but please pay good attention and practice more no. of problems. You’ll have a good time
during exams.
All the best.