Question

In a given time of 10s, 40s electrons pass from right to left. In the same interval of time 40 protons also pass from left to right. Is the average current zero? If not, the find the value of average current.

Answer 1

The average current is:

• In a given time t = 10 s, 40 s electrons pass from right to left. In the same interval of time 40 protons also pass from left to right.
• Current is flow of positive charge. So, current due to electrons and protons adds up. It flows from left to right. So, the average current is not zero.
• Total number of electrons and protons = n = 40 + 40 = 80

• Charge for electron = Charge of proton = e = $1.6 * 10^{-19} C$

• Average current = $\frac{Total Charge}{Time } = \frac{ne}{t} = 1.28 * 10^{-18} A$