Introduction to Electrodynamics · Problem 5.20

Magnetostatics — David J. Griffiths

Physics · mobile-charge-density-electron-velocity-copper

Problem

(a) Find the density ρ\rho of mobile charges in a piece of copper, assuming each atom contributes one free electron. [Look up the necessary physical constants.] (b) Calculate the average electron velocity in a copper wire 1 mm in diameter, carrying a current of 1 A. [Note: This is literally a snail's pace. How, then, can you carry on a long distance telephone conversation?] (c) What is the force of attraction between two such wires, 1 cm apart? (d) If you could somehow remove the stationary positive charges, what would the electrical repulsion force be? How many times greater than the magnetic force is it?

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