Steady Current and Electron Movement

When a steady current flows through a conductor, it implies that the flow of charge is constant and does not change with time. In this case, the electrons in the conductor move in a specific manner.

Drift Speed
The average speed at which electrons move in a conductor when a steady current flows through it is known as the drift speed. This drift speed is relatively slow compared to the speed of individual electrons.

Explanation

1. Movement of Electrons
- In a conductor, such as a metal wire, there are numerous free electrons that are not bound to individual atoms.
- These free electrons move randomly in all directions due to thermal energy.
- However, when a potential difference is applied across the ends of the conductor, a force acts on these free electrons, known as the electric field force.
- This electric field force causes the free electrons to move in a preferred direction, opposite to the direction of the electric field.

2. Drift Speed
- The random thermal motion of the electrons is much faster compared to the drift speed.
- Due to collisions with atoms and other impurities in the conductor, the average speed of the electrons in the preferred direction is reduced.
- These collisions cause the electrons to change their direction of motion, leading to a zigzag path.
- The average speed of the electrons along this zigzag path, in the direction opposite to the electric field, is known as the drift speed.
- It is important to note that individual electrons can move at very high speeds during collisions, but their average speed in the preferred direction is relatively slow.

3. Factors Affecting Drift Speed
- The drift speed is influenced by various factors including the magnitude of the applied potential difference, the resistance of the conductor, and the density of free electrons in the conductor.
- A higher potential difference leads to a greater electric field force and, consequently, a higher drift speed.
- Similarly, a higher density of free electrons in the conductor results in a higher drift speed.

Conclusion
In summary, when a steady current flows through a conductor, the electrons in it move with an average speed known as the drift speed. This drift speed is relatively slow compared to the speed of individual electrons and is influenced by factors such as the applied potential difference, resistance of the conductor, and density of free electrons.