Charge velocity and current density

In summary, the current density is -10^6z^{1.5} \hat{z} Am^{-2} in the region of 0 \leq r \leq 20\mu m, and 0 for r \geq 20 \mu m. The volume charge density at z=0.15m is -2000C/m^3 and the goal is to find the charge velocity at that point. Two possible methods were tried, one using J_z(0.15) and the other using the continuity equation. However, the correct answer of -2900 was not obtained.
  • #1
Defennder
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Homework Statement


Current density is given in cylindrical coordinates as [tex]\vec{J} = -10^6z^{1.5} \hat{z} Am^{-2} \ \mbox{in the region} \ 0 \leq r \leq 20\mu m , \mbox{and for} \ r \geq 20 \mu m, \ \vec{J} = 0[/tex]

If the volume charge density at z=0.15 m is -2000C/m^3, find the charge velocity there.


Homework Equations


[tex]\nabla \cdot \vec{J} = -\frac{\partial \rho_v}{\partial t} [/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution


Okay so this seems pretty straightforward. Given that J is only in the z-direction, then isn't it simply possible to find v_z by dividing J_z(0.15) by -2000 there? But this gives me 29 which isn't the answer. The answer is -2900.

Another method I tried was solving for [tex]\rho_v[/tex] using the relevant equations. This gives me [tex]\rho_v = 1.5x10^6 \int \sqrt{z} dt = 1.5x10^6\sqrt{z}t + g(z)[/tex]. But how do I find what g(z) is? And I have to solve for t as well, since it's not stated what value of t I should evaluate the charge velocity for at z=0.15.
 
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  • #2
I don't think that answer is right. You are looking for dQ/dt and you know that [itex]\rho=Q/V[/tex] for a uniform charge, so then you can solve for dQ/dt from the continuity equation.
 
  • #3
I don't think the charge is uniform. Why should it be?
 
  • #4
Oh, I guess I read it wrong. I suppose all the problem is really saying that only at the point z=.15 that it is uniform.

I mean, you have to know something about the charge density, or else you are shooting in the dark when it comes to finding the charge.
 
  • #5
The question is as stated. I didn't omit anything.
 

FAQ: Charge velocity and current density

What is charge velocity?

Charge velocity refers to the speed at which electric charges move through a conductor or medium. It is typically measured in meters per second, and can vary depending on factors such as the type of material and the strength of the electric field.

How is charge velocity related to current?

Charge velocity and current are closely related, as current is defined as the rate of flow of electric charge. The higher the charge velocity, the greater the current will be.

What is current density?

Current density is a measure of the amount of electric current flowing through a given area. It is calculated by dividing the current by the cross-sectional area through which it is flowing. Current density is often denoted by the symbol J and is measured in amperes per square meter (A/m2).

How is current density related to charge velocity?

Current density and charge velocity are directly proportional to each other. As the charge velocity increases, so does the current density, and vice versa.

What factors affect charge velocity and current density?

Several factors can affect charge velocity and current density, including the type of material, the strength of the electric field, and temperature. In general, conductors with higher electrical conductivity will have a higher charge velocity and current density, while insulators will have a lower charge velocity and current density.

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