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Wire Resistance Formula:
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The wire resistance formula calculates the electrical resistance of a conductor based on its material properties and physical dimensions. It is fundamental in electrical engineering and circuit design.
The calculator uses the wire resistance formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows that resistance is directly proportional to the length of the wire and inversely proportional to its cross-sectional area, with resistivity being a material-specific constant.
Details: Accurate resistance calculation is crucial for designing electrical circuits, selecting appropriate wire gauges, preventing voltage drops, and ensuring electrical safety in various applications.
Tips: Enter resistivity in Ω·m, length in meters, and cross-sectional area in square meters. All values must be positive numbers. Common resistivity values: copper = 1.68×10⁻⁸ Ω·m, aluminum = 2.82×10⁻⁸ Ω·m.
Q1: What is resistivity and how is it determined?
A: Resistivity is a material property that quantifies how strongly a material opposes electric current. It is determined by the material's atomic structure and is typically measured experimentally.
Q2: Why does resistance increase with length?
A: Longer wires provide more obstacles for electrons to travel through, increasing the total resistance proportionally with length.
Q3: Why does resistance decrease with larger cross-sectional area?
A: Larger cross-sectional areas provide more pathways for electrons to flow, reducing the overall resistance inversely with area.
Q4: How does temperature affect wire resistance?
A: For most conductors, resistance increases with temperature due to increased atomic vibrations that impede electron flow.
Q5: What are common applications of this calculation?
A: Used in electrical wiring design, transformer construction, motor winding, transmission line planning, and electronic circuit design.