ELECTRONS IN A COPPER WIRE - SPEEDY OR SLOW?

[marconi]

EF readers may be interested in learning more about the electrons they skilfuly control on a daily basis.

See:

Copper and electricity. Drift velocity. - http://resources.schoolscience.co.uk/CDA/16plus/copelech2pg3.html

 

[littlespark]

Ah..... we’re not electricians these days. We are “Electron Management Consultants”

 

[marconi]

With 'consultant' in your job title you can treble (or more) your hourly rate.

 

[Wilko]

I'm still working on Thinking, Fast and Slow. The electrons will just have to wait their turn.

 

[The Ghost]

That made me dizzy looking at that so early on in the day. Never thought electrons moved so slow.

 

[marconi]

So why does it not take an eternity for a lamp to shine when its switch is closed?

 

[telectrix]

So why does it not take an eternity for a lamp to shine when its switch is closed?

probably a cfl type.

 

[static zap]

There is a large "pool" full of electrons that really don't like each other (personal space issues) , drop a few in one end and nearly instantly
(after a a bit of jostling) a few will jump out the other end
(If an emf ..or beer is there to guide their journey)
_but they won't be the same electrons_

 

[marconi]

I remember being astounded when I first learned about the low value of drift velocity in a metal conductor.

 

[telectrix]

with an A.C. sinewave supply, why don't the electrons throw up like on a roller coaster?

 

[static zap]

...... why don't the electrons throw up like on a roller coaster?

Due to drift velocity issues they never get back to the bar for that 2nd drink without sobering up first.
(and possibly a few centuries tea-total)

 

[FatAlan]

Doesn’t take into account whether or not the electrons are French or English though?

 

[Darkwood]

Oh this is so much my field as Marconi already knows ... if you want more mind blowing eye openers let me know but I'll leave you with one fact ... the moon is the only natural satellite that can be seen with the naked eye from the great wall of China