Chapter 6: Problem 7
Calculate the mobility of electrons in \(\mathrm{Cu}\). The resistivity of \(\mathrm{Cu}\) is \(1.72 \times\) \(10^{-8} \Omega \cdot \mathrm{m}\) at \(25^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) and its density is \(8.9 \mathrm{~g} / \mathrm{cm}^{3}\). Assume each copper atom donates one valence electron to the conduction band.
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Determine the number of atoms per unit volume
Calculate electron charge and conductivity
Calculate mobility using the formula
Verify units and calculate final result
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Resistivity
- With higher resistivity, electrical currents face more resistance, leading to more energy being dissipated as heat. - In the case of copper, known for its excellent electrical conductivity, the resistivity is quite low, specifically, copper has a resistivity of approximately 1.72 x 10^{-8} a d.
The relation between resistivity (c) and conductivity (3) is essential to remember: 3 = 1/c. This means that as resistivity decreases, conductivity increases, showcasing copper's efficiency in conducting electricity.
Conductivity
- A high conductivity indicates that a material can easily allow the passage of electric current with minimal energy loss.
- Copper is often used in electrical applications due to its high conductivity of about 5.81 x 10^7 S/m.
The high conductivity of copper is a result of its atomic structure, which allows electrons to flow freely. Conductivity is crucial in electrical wiring and electronic circuits, and it directly affects how efficiently energy is transmitted.
Valence Electron
- In metals like copper, valence electrons are not tightly bound to any atom and can move relatively freely. This freedom allows metals to conduct electric current efficiently. - Copper atoms donate one valence electron to the conduction band, creating a sea of free electrons that facilitate electrical conductivity. - The ease of movement of these valence electrons is what gives metals like copper their characteristic shiny appearance and high conductivity.
Understanding valence electrons is key to exploiting a metal's ability to conduct electricity, impacting both material science and electronics industries.
Copper Atoms
- Each copper atom contributes a single valence electron to the conduction band, fostering a rich environment of electrons ready for conduction. - Copper's molar mass is approximately 63.55 g/mol and its density is 8.9 g/cm^3, based on which the number of copper atoms in a material can be determined.
Copper's exceptional capacity to conduct electricity stems from its ability to donate one valence electron per atom, making it a staple in electrical engineering applications. The low resistivity and high conductivity of copper also ensure minimal energy loss, making it ideal for wiring and other conductive materials.