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Resistivity and Conductivity Formula:
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The resistivity and conductivity formula describes the inverse relationship between electrical resistivity (ρ) and electrical conductivity (σ). Conductivity is the reciprocal of resistivity, representing how well a material conducts electric current.
The calculator uses the fundamental formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula shows that materials with high resistivity have low conductivity, and vice versa. Good conductors have high conductivity and low resistivity.
Details: Understanding the relationship between resistivity and conductivity is crucial for material selection in electrical engineering, electronics design, and understanding material properties for various applications.
Tips: Enter resistivity value in Ω·m. The value must be greater than zero. The calculator will automatically compute the corresponding conductivity in S/m.
Q1: What is the difference between resistivity and conductivity?
A: Resistivity measures how strongly a material opposes electric current flow, while conductivity measures how easily electric current flows through a material.
Q2: What are typical resistivity values for common materials?
A: Copper: ~1.68×10⁻⁸ Ω·m, Silver: ~1.59×10⁻⁸ Ω·m, Glass: ~10¹⁰-10¹⁴ Ω·m, Rubber: ~10¹³-10¹⁶ Ω·m.
Q3: How does temperature affect resistivity and conductivity?
A: For most metals, resistivity increases with temperature, while conductivity decreases. For semiconductors, the relationship can be more complex.
Q4: What are the SI units for resistivity and conductivity?
A: Resistivity: Ohm-meter (Ω·m), Conductivity: Siemens per meter (S/m).
Q5: Why is this relationship important in practical applications?
A: This relationship helps engineers select appropriate materials for wires, insulators, semiconductors, and various electronic components based on required electrical properties.