What is the order of drift velocity of an electron in a conductor?

Question

Answer

Order of Drift Velocity of an Electron in a Conductor

Drift velocity is the average velocity attained by the free electrons in a conductor when an electric field is applied. The order of drift velocity of an electron in a conductor can be explained as follows:

1. Introduction

Explain the concept of drift velocity in brief.

2. Factors Affecting Drift Velocity

Electric field strength

Number density of free electrons

Collision frequency of free electrons with atoms and ions

3. Order of Drift Velocity

The order of drift velocity of an electron in a conductor is typically in the range of millimeters per second (mm/s) to centimeters per second (cm/s). The actual value depends on the strength of the applied electric field, the number density of free electrons in the conductor, and the collision frequency of the free electrons with atoms and ions in the conductor. In general, the drift velocity is directly proportional to the electric field strength and inversely proportional to the collision frequency.

4. Conclusion

In conclusion, the order of drift velocity of an electron in a conductor is determined by the strength of the applied electric field, the number density of free electrons in the conductor, and the collision frequency of the free electrons with atoms and ions in the conductor. It is typically in the range of millimeters per second (mm/s) to centimeters per second (cm/s).

Answer

Drift velocity of electron in a conductor is of the order of 10m/s l. it is very small compared to the thermal speed which is of the order of 10^5m/s . drift velocity of electrons in a conductor is of the order of 10^-4m/s.

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