Does Current Depend on Wire Diameter?

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Current does depend on wire diameter, as a smaller diameter wire has a higher resistance, affecting the overall current flow. The analogy of water flow in a garden hose illustrates that reducing the hose diameter decreases water flow, similar to how a smaller wire restricts electron flow. The discussion highlights that while current can be the same in different wires under certain conditions, the resistance varies with cross-sectional area, impacting current calculations. The relationship between current, voltage, and resistance is crucial in understanding this concept. Therefore, wire diameter plays a significant role in determining the current in electrical circuits.
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Homework Statement



Capture.PNG


Asking for drift speed, current in the second 2 mm diameter wire.

Homework Equations



electron flow=qvA, I=V/R, R depends on A---why doesn't current then depend on A?


The Attempt at a Solution



I can only solve it if the currents in both disks are the same, but doesn't current depend on A?
 
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Think of the electrical current in the same way as water in a garden hose. If the hose gets smaller does the amount of water going through vary? What would happen if I made the hose get smaller?
 
So then you're saying it wouldn't be the same in the 1mm wire as in the 2 mm wire?
 

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