Signal Speed: How Can Signals Travel So Fast?

In summary, the speed of signals is determined by the propagation of the electromagnetic field around the wire, which travels at near the speed of light. This can be seen in the analogy of Newton's Cradle, where the balls on the ends move quickly despite the slow movement of the balls in the middle. The electron drift through the wire is slow, but the electromagnetic field allows for fast signal propagation. However, the speed of signals may be slightly reduced due to the conductor and any insulation present.
  • #1
alexmath
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What gives the speed of signals? I've read somewhere that electrons move at 1mm/s in wire, so how is it possible that the signal goes so fast even if the current moves so slow?
 
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  • #2
The speed through a wire is usually a sizable fraction of the speed of light. Have you seen those executive toys with the balls where you drop the one of the left and the one on the right moves without the ones in the middle seeming to move? It's called "Newton's Cradle" and is a decent analogy to electric signal propagation through a wire.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newton's_cradle
 
  • #3
to clarify...

The electron drift through the wire is slow
The electromagnetic field AROUND the wire travels/propagates at near the speed of light
Its not exactly the speed of light because there is a propagation velocity factor effect of the conductor and any insulation that may be around it

cheers
Dave
 

FAQ: Signal Speed: How Can Signals Travel So Fast?

How is signal speed measured?

Signal speed is typically measured in meters per second (m/s) or in the speed of light, which is approximately 299,792,458 m/s. It can also be measured in terms of frequency, wavelength, or time taken for a signal to travel a certain distance.

What factors can affect signal speed?

Signal speed can be affected by the medium through which it travels, such as air, water, or a vacuum. It can also be influenced by temperature, humidity, and other environmental conditions. In addition, the type of signal and the equipment used to transmit and receive it can also impact its speed.

How can signals travel so fast?

The speed of a signal is determined by the properties of the medium through which it travels. In a vacuum, such as outer space, signals can travel at the speed of light. In other mediums, such as air or water, the speed of signals is slower due to interactions with particles in the medium. Advances in technology have also allowed for faster signal transmission through the use of fiber optics and other high-speed communication methods.

Is there a limit to how fast signals can travel?

According to the theory of relativity, there is a maximum speed at which anything can travel, including signals. This speed is the speed of light, and it is considered to be the ultimate speed limit in the universe. While it is currently the fastest known speed, it is possible that future scientific advancements may allow for even faster signal transmission.

Can signals travel faster than the speed of light?

According to our current understanding of physics, it is not possible for signals to travel faster than the speed of light. This is due to the fact that as an object approaches the speed of light, its mass increases and it requires an infinite amount of energy to accelerate it further. Therefore, the speed of light is considered to be a universal speed limit that cannot be exceeded.

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