Why do charge carriers reside on the shell of a conductor?

Thread starter iScience
Start date Jul 4, 2013
Tags

Charge Charge carriers Conductor Shell

In summary, charge carriers reside on the surface or shell of a conductor due to the presence of free electrons. This location is ideal for them to reside as they can move easily without resistance. The electric field in the conductor keeps the charge carriers on the surface, preventing them from moving towards the interior. While they can technically move within the interior, it is less likely due to the presence of the electric field and tightly bound atoms. Some exceptions to this include semiconductors and materials with impurities. The significance of charge carriers on the surface of a conductor is crucial for the flow of electricity, as they are responsible for creating an electric current and allowing for the transmission of energy.

Jul 4, 2013

iScience

can someone please provide me with a proof or even just an intuitive explanation

Physics news on Phys.org

Jul 4, 2013

Naty1

because they repel each other

edit: consider placing a bunch of electrons together in the center of an empty sphere...what do you think would happen??

Last edited: Jul 4, 2013

FAQ: Why do charge carriers reside on the shell of a conductor?

1. Why do charge carriers reside on the shell of a conductor?

The shell of a conductor, also known as the surface, is where charge carriers are most likely to reside due to the presence of free electrons. These free electrons are able to move easily and without resistance on the surface of the conductor, making it the most ideal location for them to reside.

2. How do charge carriers stay on the surface of a conductor?

The presence of an electric field in the conductor helps to keep the charge carriers on the surface. The electric field exerts a force on the free electrons, causing them to spread out evenly on the surface and preventing them from moving towards the interior of the conductor.

3. Can charge carriers move within the interior of the conductor?

While charge carriers can technically move within the interior of a conductor, they are less likely to do so due to the presence of the electric field and the abundance of free electrons on the surface. Additionally, the interior of a conductor is typically filled with atoms that are tightly bound together, making it difficult for the charge carriers to move freely.

4. Are there any exceptions to charge carriers residing on the shell of a conductor?

In certain cases, such as in semiconductors or in materials with impurities, charge carriers may not reside solely on the surface of the conductor. This is because these materials have a lower concentration of free electrons and a weaker electric field, allowing for some charge carriers to move within the interior of the conductor.

5. What is the significance of charge carriers residing on the shell of a conductor?

The presence of charge carriers on the surface of a conductor is essential for the flow of electricity. These free electrons can easily move along the surface, creating an electric current and allowing for the transmission of energy. This is why conductors, such as metal wires, are commonly used in electrical circuits to carry and distribute electricity.