Resistance calculation on right angle current flow

In summary, the resistance of a rectangular shape can be calculated using the formula R=ρA/L, where ρ is the resistivity of the material, A is the cross-sectional area, and L is the length. However, when the current flow is not parallel, such as in the case of the bottom case where current flows from the bottom through the right side, the calculation becomes more complex. Some references suggest breaking the shape into smaller resistors and integrating, while others propose experimental research to determine the relationship between current and voltage. Ultimately, the best method may depend on the specific shape and setup of the circuit.
  • #1
Richard92
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As you know, resistance of a rectangular shape is given by R=ρ A/L

But how do we theoretically calculate the resistance of the bottom case? ( now, the current flow is not parrallel, current flows from bottom through the right side)

I would like to know if there is any references for this calculation,

As far, I found a reference on EDN forum, (http://www.edn.com/design/component...thod-to-quickly-estimate-PWB-trace-resistance)

Jaeger has experimentally calculated on a case which the current flows on right angle. (resistance drops by 0.56 *(sheet resistance) )
 

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  • #2
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The cross-sectional area is to be perpendicular to the direction of current and the length is to be measured in the direction parallel to current flow.
So, in the second case, the cross-sectional area will be ##L\cdot W## and the length will be ##H##.
$$R=\frac{\rho\cdot Area}{Length}=\frac{\rho LW}{H}$$
 
  • #3
Thanks arpon, but still your case is explaining when the current flow is vertical, I would like to know when the flow is turning to the right side. In other words, the two electrodes are on the bottom and the right side.
 
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  • #4
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In that case, you can break the resistance into several rectangular shaped resistances and then integrate.
 
  • #5
Richard92 said:
Thanks arpon, but still your case is explaining when the current flow is vertical, I would like to know when the flow is turning to the right side. In other words, the two electrodes are on the bottom and the right side.
In that case you most likely will have to use some numerical calculations. Not likely to find and "easy" formula. The current density is not uniform in this case and you need to find how it depends on position.
Or you can experimentally research how the current varies with voltage and this will give you the resistance.
 
  • #6
With how it seems, the integration would be a little more complicated, since currents usually flow throughout the entire conductor, something similar to what Arpon has suggested usually works. After all it depends on the cross sectional area. The expression of the shape itself is not hard to find, as to express it you could do with some plane equations.
Another method would be breaking the the shape into small resistors in parallel and integrate, but that'd be stupidly difficult I think.
 
  • #7
I doubt it that it works at all. The fact that you put two electrodes on the faces does not mean that the current goes perpendicular to these slices.
Even if you have two "point "electrodes on the opposite faces the simple formula is only an approximation for an extended cube (rather than a thin wire).
 

FAQ: Resistance calculation on right angle current flow

1. What is resistance?

Resistance is a measure of how much a material or device impedes the flow of electric current. It is measured in Ohms (Ω) and is represented by the symbol "R".

2. How is resistance calculated?

Resistance can be calculated using Ohm's Law, which states that resistance is equal to the voltage (V) divided by the current (I). In the case of right angle current flow, the resistance can be calculated by using the Pythagorean theorem, where the hypotenuse is equal to the square root of the sum of the squares of the two perpendicular sides.

3. What factors affect resistance in a circuit?

The three main factors that affect resistance in a circuit are the material of the conductor, the length of the conductor, and the cross-sectional area of the conductor. Other factors that can also affect resistance include temperature, type of current (AC or DC), and the presence of insulators or other components in the circuit.

4. Does the angle of current flow affect resistance?

Yes, the angle of current flow can affect resistance in a circuit. In a right angle current flow, the resistance will be greater compared to a parallel or straight flow of current. This is because the current has to travel a longer distance, which increases the overall resistance in the circuit.

5. How can resistance be reduced in a circuit with right angle current flow?

One way to reduce resistance in a circuit with right angle current flow is to increase the cross-sectional area of the conductor. This allows more space for the current to flow, reducing the overall resistance. Another way is to use conductors with lower resistance materials, such as copper or silver, instead of materials with higher resistance like iron or steel.

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