Physic Labs

Problem 3

A uniform wire of resistivity ρ\rho, length LL, and cross-sectional area AA is kept at constant temperature. It is slowly drawn into a wire of the same material and volume, length 2L2L, with uniform new area and unchanged resistivity. (a) Find initial resistance. (b) Find new area and resistance. (c) Compare the resistances and explain why the area must change. Keep the sign convention consistent and use appropriate SI units throughout. Each part builds on intermediate results from the preceding part; apply a physical relation only where the stated model assumptions hold. Finally compare the answers with the initial conditions, expected trends, and an independent check when available.
R0=ρL/AR_0=\rho L/A
problems.proof.analysis

Apply the governing law for the stated model, using the sign convention in the problem. This provides the starting equation for the later parts.

problems.proof.pitfall. Constant volume halves the area; do not hold A fixed when length doubles.