Question:

Two copper wires of length $ l $ and $2 l $ have radii $r$ and $2r$ respectively. What is the ratio of their specific resistances?

Updated On: Jun 18, 2022
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

The specific resistance $(\rho)$ is the characteristic of the material of conductor.
Its value depends only on the material of conductor and its temperature. Its value does not depend on the length and area of cross-section of the conductor.
If a wire is stretched or doubled on itself, it resistance will change, but its specific resistance will remain unaffected.
More conducting the substance, less is its specific resistance.
Note: The value of $ \rho $ is more for non- conductors.
For a perfect conductor $ \rho =0 $ (zero) and for a perfect insulator $ \rho =\infty $ (infinite).
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Concepts Used:

Resistance

Resistance is the measure of opposition applied by any object to the flow of electric current. A resistor is an electronic constituent that is used in the circuit with the purpose of offering that specific amount of resistance.

R=V/I

In this case,

v = Voltage across its ends

I = Current flowing through it

All materials resist current flow to some degree. They fall into one of two broad categories:

  • Conductors: Materials that offer very little resistance where electrons can move easily. Examples: silver, copper, gold and aluminum.
  • Insulators: Materials that present high resistance and restrict the flow of electrons. Examples: Rubber, paper, glass, wood and plastic.

Resistance measurements are normally taken to indicate the condition of a component or a circuit.

  • The higher the resistance, the lower the current flow. If abnormally high, one possible cause (among many) could be damaged conductors due to burning or corrosion. All conductors give off some degree of heat, so overheating is an issue often associated with resistance.
  • The lower the resistance, the higher the current flow. Possible causes: insulators damaged by moisture or overheating.