fast does electricity travel

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How fast does electricity flow?

Drift velocity, the average speed at which electrons travel in a conductor when subjected to an electric field, is about 1mm per second.

Gareth Mitchell

Asked by: Carel Lucas, Perth, Australia

Drift velocity, the average speed at which electrons travel in a conductor when subjected to an electric field, is about 1mm per second. It’s the electromagnetic wave rippling through the electrons that propagates at close to the speed of light. The dimensions of the wire and electrical properties like its inductance affect the exact propagation speed, but usually it will be around 90 per cent of the speed of light – about 270,000 km/s.

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How fast does electricity flow? – Speed of electricity

30-second summary, speed of electricity.

The word electricity generally refers to the movement of electrons (or other charge carriers) through a conductor in the presence of a potential difference or an electric field . The speed of this flow has multiple meanings. If we are going to deal with the question of how fast electricity flows, then we have to distinguish two basic types of speeds. 

• Wave propagation speed. 
• Drift velocity

In everyday electrical and electronic devices, the signals travel as electromagnetic waves typically at 50%–99% of the speed of light in vacuum, while the electrons themselves move much more slowly.

The drift velocity of electrons in a conductor is typically quite slow, on the order of a few millimeters per second, even though the current in the conductor may be quite high.

AC voltages cause no net movement; the electrons oscillate back and forth in response to the alternating electric field (over a distance of a few micrometers.

Electric Current

Electric current is the flow of electric charge through a material. It is the rate at which electric charge flows past a point in a circuit. The flow of electric charge is typically carried by electrons , which are negatively charged particles.

The SI unit for current is the coulomb per second, or the ampere (A), which is an SI base unit: 

1 ampere = 1A = 1 coulomb per second = 1 C/s.

In electrostatic situations, the electric field is zero everywhere within the conductor, and there is no current. However, this does not mean that all charges within the conductor are at rest. In an ordinary metal such as copper or alumium , some of the electrons are free to move within the conducting material. These free electrons move randomly in all directions, somewhat like the molecules of a gas but with much greater speeds, of the order of 10 6 m/s. The electrons nonetheless do not escape from the conducting material, because they are attracted to the positive ions of the material. The motion of the electrons is random, so there is no net flow of charge in any direction and hence no current.

When a voltage difference is applied across a conductor, it creates an electric field within the material. The electric field exerts a force on the free electrons within the conductor, causing them to move from areas of high potential energy to areas of lower potential energy. The flow of electrons in response to the applied electric field is what we refer to as an electric current.

In conductors, the valence electrons are essentially free and strongly repel each other. Any external influence which moves one of them will cause a repulsion of other electrons, which propagates “domino fashion” through the conductor.

Speed of Signal and Electrons

The word electricity refers generally to the movement of electrons (or other charge carriers) through a conductor in the presence of a potential difference or an electric field . The speed of this flow has multiple meanings. If we are going to deal with the question of how fast electricity flows, then we have to distinguish two basic types of speeds. 

Wave Propagation Speed

Wave propagation speed also called the velocity factor or velocity of propagation of a transmission medium is the ratio of the speed at which a wavefront (of an electromagnetic signal, a radio signal, a light pulse in an optical fibre or a change of the electrical voltage on a copper wire) passes through the medium, to the speed of light in vacuum.

The dimensions of the wire and electrical properties like its inductance affect the exact propagation speed, but usually it will be around 90 percent of the speed of light – about 270,000 km/s.

In everyday electrical and electronic devices, the signals travel as electromagnetic waves typically at 50%–99% of the speed of light in a vacuum, while the electrons themselves move much more slowly; see drift velocity and electron mobility.

For example, the velocity factor for coaxial cable is typically around 0.66 to 0.85, meaning that the velocity of an electromagnetic wave in the cable is only about two-thirds to four-fifths of the velocity of light in a vacuum. This can cause signals to experience a delay when transmitted through the cable since the velocity of the wave is slower than it would be in a vacuum. The delay can be significant for high-frequency signals, which can experience phase shifts or distortion due to the velocity factor.

Drift Velocity

In electricity, drift velocity refers to the average velocity of the charge carriers, usually electrons, as they move through a conductor under the influence of an electric field.

When a voltage is applied across a conductor, an electric field is established, which causes the electrons to move in a certain direction. However, the electrons do not move in a straight line but rather undergo a random motion due to collisions with the atoms of the conductor losing energy and scattering in random directions. This creates resistance to the flow of electrons and causes some of the energy of the electric field to be converted into heat.

This random motion causes the electrons to have an average velocity, which is called the drift velocity.

The drift velocity of electrons in a conductor is typically quite slow, on the order of a few millimeters per second, even though the current in the conductor may be quite high. This is because the electrons are constantly colliding with the atoms of the conductor, which slows down their overall motion. Drift velocity is proportional to current. In a resistive material, it is also proportional to the magnitude of an external electric field.

While the drift velocity is relatively slow, it is still an important concept in understanding the behavior of electric currents in conductors. The overall flow of electric charge in a conductor is determined by the combination of the drift velocity and the number of charge carriers moving through the conductor.

The drift velocity of electrons in a conductor can be calculated using the following formula:

v d = (I / nAq)

• v d is the drift velocity of electrons in meters per second (m/s)
• I is the current flowing through the conductor in amperes (A)
• n is the number of charge carriers per unit volume in the conductor (in m^-3)
• A is the cross-sectional area of the conductor in square meters (m^2)
• q is the charge of a single electron, which is approximately 1.602 x 10^-19 Coulombs (C)

This formula is derived from the equation for electrical current (I = nAqv d ), which relates the current flowing through a conductor to the number of charge carriers, their velocity, and the cross-sectional area of the conductor.

For example, when a DC voltage is applied, the electron drift velocity will increase in speed proportionally to the strength of the electric field. The drift velocity in a 2 mm diameter copper wire in 1 ampere current is approximately 8 cm per hour. AC voltages cause no net movement; the electrons oscillate back and forth in response to the alternating electric field (over a distance of a few micrometers).

Drift Velocity and Electron Mobility

Drift velocity and electron mobility are two related concepts in the study of electricity and conductors, but they refer to different aspects of the behavior of charge carriers, such as electrons, in a material.

Drift velocity refers to the average velocity of charge carriers, such as electrons, as they move through a conductor under the influence of an electric field. This velocity is affected by factors such as the density of the charge carriers, the cross-sectional area of the conductor, and the strength of the electric field. The drift velocity is typically quite slow, on the order of a few millimeters per second, due to the frequent collisions between charge carriers and the atoms of the conductor.

Electron mobility, on the other hand, is a measure of how easily electrons can move through a material under the influence of an electric field. It is defined as the ratio of the drift velocity of the electrons to the electric field strength. In other words, electron mobility is a measure of how efficiently the electrons can move through the material, taking into account the resistance to their motion due to collisions with the atoms of the conductor. The unit of electron mobility is meters squared per volt-second (m^2/Vs).

While drift velocity and electron mobility are related, they are not interchangeable. The drift velocity is a physical quantity that describes the motion of charge carriers in a conductor, while electron mobility is a material property that characterizes how easily electrons can move through a specific material under the influence of an electric field.

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• Physics and Electricity

Why Does Electricity Travel at the Speed of Light?

Have you ever wondered how fast electricity moves? You flip a light switch and the light turns on instantly, signaling the flow of electricity at close to the speed of light. As soon as you plug your phone charger into an outlet, it starts charging immediately, thanks to the rapid movement of electrons in the wire. With a speed close to the speed of light in vacuum, electricity seems to travel instantly! But there’s more to this story, like the concept of drift velocity, which explains the actual speed of electrons. Keep reading and delve deeper into why electricity zips around at an incredible speed – close to the speed of light!

What is Electricity?

Before we talk about how fast electricity travels, let’s go over what electricity is. Electricity involves the drift velocity or the flow of tiny particles called electrons, especially in a conductor like a copper wire. Everything is made up of atoms, and atoms contain electrons. In materials like metals, which are good conductors, some electrons are free to move from atom to atom. When we supply power, like from a battery, the electrons start flowing rapidly through the copper wire, with a drift velocity. This flow of electrons in the wire is known as an electric current, or electricity.

Electricity powers many of the devices and appliances we use every day. From lights, phones and computers to refrigerators – they all require electricity to operate. With a speed close to the speed of light, electricity allows electrons to move through wires and other conductive materials, delivering power to our devices.

Electric Fields Make Electricity Flow

So how exactly do the electrons start flowing when we complete an electrical circuit? This happens due to electric fields. An electric field surrounds any charged object, like a battery or a plugged-in appliance. The electric field exerts a force that makes electrons move and flow.

Thus, imagine holding a magnet near some metal objects. Just as it influences them, an electromagnetic field influences electricity to move incredibly fast! The magnet creates an invisible magnetic field that pushes and pulls on those objects, causing them to move. Electric fields work in a similar way. The electric field pushes and pulls on electrons, causing them to flow through a wire as an electric current.

Electricity Travels in Waves

Now we know that electrons flow when an electric field pushes them along. But how does the electric field travel so rapidly down a wire?

The answer is – in waves! An electric field forms a special type of wave called an electromagnetic wave. Electromagnetic waves can travel incredibly fast – at the speed of light!

You’re probably familiar with some electromagnetic waves, like radio waves or visible light. Electricity forms electromagnetic waves too. When an electric field fluctuates or wiggles, it creates electromagnetic waves that race down the wire.

So when we complete a circuit, the electric field doesn’t just immediately appear everywhere in the wire. Instead, it forms waves that travel rapidly along the length of the wire, pushing electrons as it goes.

Speed of Light is Fast!

Now we know that electricity travels by electromagnetic waves, zipping down wires at the speed of light. But exactly how fast is the speed of light?

The speed of light is about 300,000,000 meters per second! That’s about 670 million miles per hour. To give you an idea of how fast this is, light could circle the Earth over 7 times in just 1 second!

So when you turn on a light, the electromagnetic waves travel through the wires at this insane speed – nearly instantly lighting the bulb. Electricity propagates so rapidly that for all practical purposes, we can consider it instantaneous in everyday use.

Why So Speedy?

You might be wondering why electricity zips around at the cosmic speed limit. Here are some key reasons:

• Electric fields  – The electric field creates electromagnetic waves that can travel at light speed.
• No mass  – Light and electromagnetic waves have no mass. This allows them to move incredibly fast.
• Waves  – Waves transmit energy without moving matter. So they aren’t slowed down by collisions.
• Vibrations  – Electromagnetic waves vibrate electrically and magnetically in tune, boosting their speed.
• Constant speed  – Unlike other waves, electromagnetic waves always travel at light speed – never faster or slower.

So in summary, electricity propagates by massless electromagnetic waves that vibrate in sync and have a constant speed – the speed of light!

Uses for Speedy Electricity

The fact that electricity travels at the speed of light turns out to be incredibly useful. Here are some key applications:

Instant Electronics

The instant speed of electricity means our electronic devices turn on immediately when we flip a switch. Can you imagine if your phone took 5 minutes to start up every time you pushed the power button?

Long Distance Power Lines

Electromagnetic waves allow electricity to be transmitted rapidly over many miles through power lines without major delays. This brings electricity to homes and businesses across the country.

High-Speed Communications

From the internet to phones, our communications rely on fast electrical signals. The speed of light allows for nearly instant transmission of data and calling/texting across vast distances.

Light bulbs would be pretty useless if they took an hour to light up after flipping a switch! The rapid speed of electricity gives us instant illumination.

As you can see, many technologies we use every day depend on the speedy flow of electricity. Our modern world largely runs on electrical speed!

Electricity Speed Review

Let’s review what we’ve learned:

• Electricity is a flow of electrons produced by electric fields.
• Electric fields create electromagnetic waves that travel at the speed of light.
• Light speed is super fast – about 300 million meters per second!
• Electromagnetic waves allow electricity to propagate nearly instantly.
• We rely on speedy electricity for instant electronics, long distance transmission, communications, lighting and more.

So the next time you turn on a device or light, remember the hidden waves silently zipping along at mind-boggling speeds to make it work in an instant! The speed of electricity is another awesome example of the strange and amazing world of physics.

In this article, we explored why electricity propagates so rapidly – at the cosmic speed limit, the speed of light! We learned how electric fields create special electromagnetic waves that zip down wires at up to 300 million meters per second. These electromagnetic waves allow electrons to flow almost instantly through circuits, powering our electronic devices, communications systems, and lighting practically the moment they are switched on. The tremendous velocity of electricity, made possible by riding on light-speed waves, is a key factor enabling the convenience and power of our modern electrical world. The next time you plug in your phone or turn on a light, remember the unseen waves darting along the wires at warp speed to deliver electricity to your fingertips in the blink of an eye!

The Implications of Electricity Speed on Technology

The speed of electricity has profound implications on technology and the development of various devices. For instance, the high speed of electricity enables the use and evolution of many devices and technologies, including computers, telecommunication systems, and electrical appliances.

In computers, electrical signals travel rapidly through their circuitry, facilitating the instant processing of data. The speed of electricity is crucial in facilitating the high-speed operations of computers. If electricity traveled slower, computers would take a longer time to process data, resulting in slower computers.

Telecommunications

In telecommunications, signals must travel across vast distances at high speeds to facilitate communication. The signals, whether they are voice, data, or video, are converted into electrical signals which travel at the speed of light through the wires. This rapid transmission allows us to communicate instantly around the world.

Electrical Appliances

The speed of electricity also impacts the functionality of electrical appliances. When you turn on an appliance, the electrical signal travels rapidly through the wiring, allowing the appliance to function immediately. The speed of electricity is key to the effective operation of these devices.

The Future of Electricity Speed

As our understanding of electricity and its properties continues to evolve, it’s exciting to imagine the future possibilities enabled by the speed of electricity. Future technologies could harness the speed of electricity in novel ways, leading to advancements in fields such as quantum computing, telecommunications, and energy distribution. The ability to manipulate and control electricity at near-light speeds could usher in a new age of technological innovation.

Quantum Computing

In the emerging field of quantum computing, the speed of electricity could play a crucial role. Quantum computers utilize quantum bits, or “qubits,” which can exist in multiple states at once, unlike classic binary bits. This allows quantum computers to process massive amounts of information at once. The speed of electricity could be critical in transmitting and processing quantum information at high speeds, making quantum computing more viable and efficient.

As technology continues to advance, the demand for high-speed data transmission increases. With the advent of 5G and potential future generations of wireless technology, the speed of electricity could enable faster data transmission rates and lower latency. This could revolutionize telecommunications, enabling technologies such as real-time remote surgeries, autonomous vehicles, and advanced virtual reality experiences.

Energy Distribution

In the field of energy distribution, the speed of electricity could lead to advancements in how we distribute and use electricity. For instance, it could enable faster response times in smart grids, making them more efficient and reliable. It could also lead to advancements in renewable energy technologies, such as solar or wind power, where the speed of electricity could facilitate faster energy conversion and distribution.

The speed of electricity is an essential aspect of our modern world, impacting everything from our everyday devices to cutting-edge technologies. As we continue to explore and understand electricity, its speed, and its properties, we’ll undoubtedly uncover new ways to harness its power, driving innovation and advancement in numerous fields.

Calzadilla, V., Romeira, B., Pagliano, F., Birindelli, S., Higuera-Rodriguez, A., Veldhoven, P., … & Heiss, D. (2017). Waveguide-coupled nanopillar metal-cavity light-emitting diodes on silicon.  Nature Communications, 8 (1).  https://doi.org/10.1038/ncomms14323

Janhunen, P. and Sandroos, A. (2007). Simulation study of solar wind push on a charged wire: basis of solar wind electric sail propulsion.  Annales Geophysicae, 25 (3), 755-767.  https://doi.org/10.5194/angeo-25-755-2007

Lingam, M. and Loeb, A. (2020). Electric sails are potentially more effective than light sails near most stars.  Acta Astronautica, 168 , 146-154.  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actaastro.2019.12.013

Shadid, W. (2016). Two new theories for the current charge relativity and the electric origin of the magnetic force between two filamentary current elements.  Ieee Access, 4 , 4509-4533.  https://doi.org/10.1109/access.2016.2598394

Marc LaClear

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How Fast Does Electricity Travel? Unraveling the Speed of Current

Electricity, the unseen energy that drives our contemporary world, stands as a testament to the wonders of scientific inquiry and engineering ingenuity. But have you ever stopped to wonder just how fast electricity travels? Join us as we delve into the fascinating realm of electric currents and uncover the secrets behind the speed at which this essential energy moves. Discover everything about how fast does electricity travels and many more important things.

Introduction of How fast does electricity travel : The Pulse of Modern Life

In an era where electricity is the lifeblood of our daily existence, understanding its fundamental characteristics is more important than ever. At the heart of this exploration lies the question: How fast does electricity travel actually?

The Need for Speed: Understanding Electrical Velocity

Electricity is more than a force – it's a pulse of energy that surges through our modern world. It powers our homes, charges our devices, and drives our industries. But how fast does this pulse travel? The concept of electrical velocity, or the speed at which electrical currents move, is a fundamental aspect of our daily lives. It determines how quickly electricity can travel from its source to the devices we rely on, influencing everything from communication systems to the functioning of electronic gadgets.

The Journey Through Wires: Exploring Conductivity

As electricity embarks on its journey, it encounters various materials and conductors. The speed of electrical currents is influenced by the type of conductor through which they travel. In general, highly conductive materials like copper and aluminum allow electricity to move at faster speeds. This conductivity is essential for ensuring efficient transmission of electrical signals, especially over long distances.

Understanding Electric Current: A Flow of Electrons

• Electric Current Defined: Electric current refers to the movement of charged particles, specifically electrons, through a conductive medium.
• The Role of Electromagnetic Waves: Beyond traditional wired circuits, electricity also travels as electromagnetic waves, enabling wireless communication.

The Surprising Speed: Unveiling the Numbers

The speed of electricity varies depending on the medium through which it travels. In a typical copper wire, electrical currents move at a velocity of about 95% the speed of light. This astonishing speed allows us to instantly power devices and communicate across vast distances. Comparatively, electricity moves slightly slower in other conductors, such as aluminum or steel. It is one of the most important point on How fast does electricity travel.

Factors Influencing the Speed of Electricity

• Nature of the Conductor: Different materials offer varying degrees of resistance, affecting the speed at which electricity can flow.
• Temperature's Impact: Temperature plays a role in determining how quickly electrons can navigate through a conductor.

Several factors influence the speed of electricity through conductors. The type of conductor material, its resistance, and the temperature all play a role in determining how quickly electrical signals can propagate. In most cases, a lower resistance and a cooler temperature contribute to faster electrical velocity.

Measuring Electrical Speed: Instruments and Insights

Measuring the speed of electricity requires specialized instruments and techniques. Engineers and scientists use tools like oscilloscopes and signal generators to analyze the behavior of electrical signals. These measurements provide insights into the characteristics of electrical currents and help refine our understanding of How fast does electricity travel .

Calculating the Speed of Electricity: Measuring the Journey

• Distance Traveled: Measure the distance the electricity covers during its journey.
• Time Taken: Calculate the time it takes for the electrical signal to traverse the designated distance.

Applications in Technology: Fast Track to Innovation

The speed of electricity is not only a fascinating scientific phenomenon but also a critical element in modern technology. It underlies the efficient functioning of various applications, including telecommunications, electronics, and power distribution. In communication systems, such as fiber optics, the rapid transmission of electrical signals enables high-speed data transfer, making real-time communication possible.

Implications in Circuitry: Lighting the Path

Within the realm of circuitry, the how fast does electricity travel is of utmost importance. It ensures that signals traverse the circuit without delays, allowing devices to function seamlessly. Engineers and designers must take into account the electrical velocity when creating circuit layouts to optimize performance.

Real-World Applications: Powering Our Lives

• Telecommunications and Data Transmission: The rapid movement of electricity is essential for transmitting data across vast networks, including the internet and telephone systems.
• Energy Distribution: The speed of electricity ensures efficient power distribution through electrical grids, delivering energy to homes and businesses.

The Speed Limit: Challenging the Boundaries

While the speed of electricity is remarkably fast, it is not infinite. The speed of electrical signals through conductors is limited by the properties of the material and the laws of physics. As scientists continue to explore new materials and technologies, we may find ways to push these boundaries and achieve even higher electrical velocities.

Advancements in Energy Transmission: Powering the Grid

In the realm of energy distribution, the speed of electricity plays a pivotal role in ensuring the efficient operation of power grids. High-voltage transmission lines are designed to minimize resistance and maximize electrical velocity, enabling electricity to travel long distances from power plants to homes and businesses. Advancements in technology have led to the development of superconductors, materials that can carry electricity with minimal resistance and at extremely high speeds. These innovations have the potential to revolutionize the way we transmit and utilize electrical energy on a large scale.

Beyond Earth: Electricity in Space Exploration

As humanity reaches for the stars, the speed of electricity takes on new significance in the realm of space exploration. Electrical signals are essential for communication between spacecraft, satellites, and ground control. The delay in signal transmission, known as signal travel time, becomes more pronounced over vast interplanetary distances. Engineers and scientists are continually developing methods to overcome these challenges, ensuring that commands and data are transmitted accurately and efficiently across the cosmos.

Quantum Wonders: Exploring Quantum Electrical Effects

In the world of quantum mechanics, electricity exhibits intriguing behaviors that challenge our conventional understanding. Quantum effects can influence the behavior of electrons in conductors, leading to phenomena such as quantum tunneling and superposition. These effects have the potential to impact the speed and behavior of electrical currents at extremely small scales, opening new avenues for research and technological applications.

Sustainable Speed: Electricity in Renewable Energy

Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, are becoming increasingly important in the quest for sustainable energy solutions. The speed of electricity plays a role in optimizing the efficiency of renewable energy systems. For example, solar panels convert sunlight into electrical energy, which then travels through conductors to power homes and businesses. Maximizing the speed of electricity transmission within these systems contributes to their overall effectiveness in harnessing clean and renewable power sources.

Pushing the Boundaries: Future Possibilities

• Superconductors: These revolutionary materials enable electricity to travel at astounding speeds, promising breakthroughs in technology and energy efficiency.
• Quantum Leap in Communication: Exploring the quantum realm could unlock unprecedented speeds and security in data transmission.

Harnessing the Knowledge: Applications in the Future

Understanding the speed of electricity opens doors to innovative applications. Researchers are exploring ways to leverage this knowledge to improve energy transmission efficiency, enhance data communication, and develop advanced electronic devices. By harnessing the principles of electrical velocity, we pave the way for a more connected and technologically advanced future.

Future Horizons: Pushing the Speed Limits

As technology advances and our understanding of physics deepens, scientists and engineers continue to explore ways to push the boundaries of electrical velocity. Emerging materials, such as graphene, hold the promise of ultra-fast electrical conduction and could lead to breakthroughs in electronics, communication, and energy transmission. The pursuit of even faster electrical speeds has the potential to revolutionize industries and shape the trajectory of scientific progress.

Conclusion: Unveiling the Velocity of Voltage

As we journey through the how fast does electricity travel , and world of electric currents, one thing becomes clear: the speed of electricity is a dynamic and crucial element that shapes our modern way of life. From everyday conveniences to groundbreaking innovations, the swiftness of electric current dictates how we connect, communicate, and create. While we continue to harness the power of electricity, the quest to unveil its true speed remains an ongoing exploration, driving us to new heights of knowledge and technological advancement.

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Drift Velocity Calculator

How fast does electricity travel, drift velocity equation, velocity of electron.

With this drift velocity calculator, you can compute the velocity of any charged particle in a specific material .

Have you ever wondered what the electrical current speed is in a cable? How fast does electricity travel? Read on if you want to find the answers to these questions.

The drift velocity is the average velocity that a particle (e.g., electron, electron-hole, ion) attains in a material due to an applied voltage. To determine the drift velocity, we need to know the number density, which tells us how many carriers are in a unit volume of material (usually expressed in carriers per cubic meter). In the text below, we present the drift velocity equation and some simple calculations of the velocity of an electron.

You may also be interested in how a charged particle behaves in the magnetic field (check out the Lorentz force calculator ) and calculating the force acting on a wire with an electric current in a magnetic field (see our electromagnetic force on a current-carrying wire calculator ).

Wonder what this all means? Check out our exploration into why electrons are so slow here:

An electric current is a movement of electric charges (usually electrons) in a wire. It may be a surprise, but these particles have a limited velocity. When you connect the electrical device to the socket, it immediately reacts. So how fast does electricity travel?

We have conducted some basic calculations of drift velocity for an electron in the text below if you want to learn more about it. We can already say that the current speed is relatively small , but there are a massive number of electrons that simultaneously feel an applied voltage. That's why our electrical device reacts so fast after connecting to a socket.

Our drift velocity calculator can be used for any charged particle and uses the below drift velocity formula:

• u u u – Drift velocity (average velocity of a particle);
• I I I – Current (you can compute it using our Ohm's law calculator );
• n n n – Charge carrier number density;
• A A A – Cross-sectional area of a wire; and
• q q q – Charge on the charge carrier.

The simple mode of our drift velocity calculator assumes that a current appears as a result of the flow of electrons with the elementary charge q = e = 1.6 × 1 0 − 19   C \small q = e = 1.6 \times 10^{-19}\ \rm C q = e = 1.6 × 1 0 − 19   C . If you want to change the type of charge carrier, go to the advanced mode .

Let's, for example, calculate the velocity of an electron in a thin copper wire ( A = 1   m m 2 ) \small (A = 1\ \rm mm^2) ( A = 1   m m 2 ) with an electrical current I = 10   A \small I = 10\ \rm A I = 10   A . Copper is a conductor with a density of 8.94   g / c m 3 \small 8.94\ \rm g/cm^3 8.94   g/c m 3 , an atomic weight of 63.546   g / m o l \small 63.546\ \rm g/mol 63.546   g/mol , and one free electron per atom.

Using that data and our number density calculator you can estimate the charge carrier number density n = 8.5 × 1 0 28   e l e c t r o n s / m 3 \small n = 8.5 \times 10^{28}\ \rm electrons/m^3 n = 8.5 × 1 0 28   electrons/ m 3 .

Finally, with our drift velocity calculator, we can compute that u = 7.343 × 1 0 − 4   m / s \small u = 7.343 \times 10^{-4}\ \rm m/s u = 7.343 × 1 0 − 4   m/s , which is surprisingly slow!

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How fast does electricity travel.

The phenomenon of electricity is something that continually powers our daily lives, yet its complexity often lies beyond the layman’s understanding. One such intriguing facet is the speed at which electricity travels. This article delves into the intricacies of its speed, providing a comprehensive understanding of how fast this incredible form of energy moves to light our homes, power our devices, and maintain the rhythm of our modern life.

What is Electricity?

Electricity is the flow of electrons that occurs when certain materials are connected together and a voltage applied. It is essentially energy moving from one place to another, and it can move very quickly depending on the material that is used to conduct the electricity. The speed at which electricity travels depends on several factors, such as the type of conductor and the amount of resistance in the circuit.

Electricity travels at the speed of light, meaning that it moves incredibly fast. In fact, electricity can travel 300 million meters in just one second! This means that when you flick a switch, it takes almost no time for the electricity to reach its destination.

In addition to being extremely fast, electricity is also very versatile. It can move through solids, liquids, and gases. This means that electricity can follow many paths to reach its destination, making it an invaluable part of our lives.

The speed of electricity also makes it very useful in telecommunications. Because electricity moves so quickly, telephone signals are able to travel from one place to another in mere seconds. This has made long-distance communication much easier and more efficient.

Electricity also has multiple uses in the medical field. It can be used to diagnose and treat various conditions, as well as provide power for various medical equipment. This makes it an invaluable tool when treating patients. [1]

Overall, electricity is a powerful force that allows us to do many things in a short amount of time. Its speed and versatility make it a great asset in our everyday lives. From powering our homes to treating medical conditions, electricity is truly an invaluable resource.

Factors Affecting the Rate of Transfer

The rate at which electricity travels also depends on several factors. For example, the type of conductor being used has a major impact on how quickly electricity moves. Copper and aluminum are generally considered the best conductors, as they have low electrical resistance and can move electricity more quickly than other materials.

The amount of voltage in the circuit is another important factor to consider. The higher the voltage, the faster electricity will travel. This is due to the fact that higher voltages create more powerful electromagnetic fields, which can carry current more efficiently and quickly.

Finally, the length of the circuit also plays a role in how fast electricity moves. Longer circuits take longer for electricity to move through, as the electric field has further to travel. Shorter circuits, on the other hand, allow electricity to move more quickly as the distance it has to cover is much smaller.

Electromagnetic Wave Theory

Electricity is also related to electromagnetic wave theory. This theory states that electric and magnetic fields are interrelated, and that they create an electromagnetic wave when combined. The speed of the wave depends on the frequency of the alternating current, which can range from extremely slow to incredibly fast.

When electricity travels, it does so in the form of an electromagnetic wave. As the wave travels, it carries with it energy and information. This is why electricity can be used for a variety of purposes, such as powering lights and appliances in our homes.

In conclusion, electricity is an incredibly powerful force that moves incredibly fast and has a variety of uses in our lives. Its speed, versatility, and ability to carry energy make it an invaluable resource. Understanding the factors affecting its rate of transfer and electromagnetic wave theory can help us better understand how electricity works and why it is so important to our modern lives. [2]

Safety Considerations When Working with Electricity

It is important to remember that while electricity is a useful tool, it must be used carefully at all times. Electric shocks can be dangerous, and it is important to take precautions when dealing with electricity. Wear protective clothing and equipment, such as rubber gloves and safety goggles, when handling electrical wiring or appliances. In addition, make sure to check wires for frays or other signs of wear before using them.

It is also important to remember that electricity can cause fires if not handled correctly. Make sure to check appliances and wiring regularly for any signs of wear or damage that could lead to a fire. If you detect any potential problems, take steps immediately to correct them.

Finally, always be aware of your surroundings when dealing with electricity. Avoid standing in water while working with electricity, as this can increase the likelihood of an electric shock. Keep away from objects that could potentially conduct electricity and make sure to stay clear of any exposed wires or outlets.

By taking the necessary precautions, you can help ensure your safety when dealing with electricity. Understanding how electricity works and following safety guidelines will help you use this powerful resource safely and efficiently.

Applications of Electricity in Everyday Life

Electricity has a variety of uses in our everyday lives. It powers many of the appliances and gadgets we use, such as computers, televisions, and microwaves. In addition, electricity is also used to power public transportation systems, such as trains and buses. This makes it easier for people to get from one place to another in a short amount of time.

Electricity is also used to provide lighting in our homes and businesses. From light bulbs to LED lights, electricity provides a reliable source of illumination that helps us see clearly. In addition, electricity can be used to power heating and cooling systems, making it easier to maintain comfortable temperatures in our homes and workplaces. [3]

Finally, electricity is also used to power many of the machines and equipment we use in industry and manufacturing. Automated machinery allows for mass production of goods in a short amount of time, making it easier for companies to meet demand and increase profits.

Overall, electricity plays an important role in our daily lives. From powering our homes and businesses to providing light and heat, electricity is a valuable resource that we rely on for our everyday needs. Understanding how it works and taking the necessary precautions is essential in order to safely use this powerful tool.

Speed of Light as a Limiting Factor

Electricity is a remarkable force, but its speed is limited by the speed of light. As electricity travels along electrical wires or through the air, it can only move as quickly as the speed of light allows. This means that no matter how powerful the current is, it cannot travel faster than 186,000 miles per second.

In addition to being limited by the speed of light, electricity is also affected by the type of material it is traveling through. Different materials have different levels of resistance to electrical current, and these levels can affect how quickly electricity moves. For example, copper and aluminum are good conductors that allow electricity to move more quickly than other materials.

Finally, the length of a circuit is also important when considering the speed of electricity. Longer circuits take longer for electricity to move through, as the electric field has further to travel. Shorter circuits, on the other hand, allow electricity to move more quickly as the distance it has to cover is much smaller. [4]

Ultimately, while electricity is an incredible force that can be used for a variety of purposes, its speed is limited by the speed of light and other factors. Understanding these limitations can help us better understand how electricity works and why it is so important to our modern lives.

It is also important to remember that electricity, while powerful, needs to be used responsibly at all times. Taking the necessary precautions when using electrical wiring or appliances can help ensure your safety and that of those around you.

Electric Field and Magnetic Field

Electricity doesn’t just travel in a straight line, it can also move in an electric and magnetic field. This is important to understand because electricity often needs to be induced from one area to another. The electric field is generated by charges that have been separated like positive and negative charges. These charges create an electric force between them that allow electrons to flow through the medium. On the other hand, a magnetic field is generated when electric current flows through a conductor like a wire or cable. This creates a force that can induce an electrical current in another conductor nearby.

Together, these fields enable electricity to travel around curves and up-and-down hills while maintaining its velocity of almost 300 million meters per second in vacuum. The strength and direction of the electric and magnetic fields, as well as the conductivity of the medium through which electricity is traveling, can all affect its speed. Electric and magnetic fields also play a role in controlling how much energy is stored and released when electricity travels. [5]

Lightening as a Demonstration of Quick Electrical Movement

One of the most visible examples of electricity’s speed is seen in a lightning strike. Electricity can travel at speeds approaching the speed of light (3 x 10⁸ m/s) within a lightning bolt, making it one of the fastest natural forms of energy transfer known.

Lightning occurs when an electric current builds up between two clouds or between a cloud and the ground. This current is then discharged in a sudden burst, creating a bright lightning bolt across the sky. The electricity in lightning travels at speeds of up to 30,000 m/s — making it one of the fastest known natural processes on earth.

This rapid transfer of energy demonstrates just how quickly electricity can travel when released all at once. It also highlights the power of electricity, as lightning has been known to cause serious injury and even death when it strikes an unlucky person or animal.

The same principles are being applied in many electrical engineering projects. High-voltage systems such as high-tension wires and electrical substations require a great deal of insulation to protect people from harm — similar to how a thunderstorm needs to be respected and taken seriously.

Resistance of Material Conductors

The speed at which electricity travels is determined by the type of material it is traveling through. Materials with a low resistance, such as copper or aluminum, allow electricity to travel more quickly than materials with high resistance, such as rubber or wood. The higher the resistance of the conductor material, the slower electricity will travel through it. This means that if you want electricity to travel quickly, you should always use low-resistance materials such as copper or aluminum.

In addition to the material of the conductor, other factors can also affect how quickly electricity travels. For instance, the length of a wire will impact how fast electricity moves through it. Longer wires offer more resistance than shorter ones, meaning that electricity will take longer to move through them. Temperature also plays a role: the hotter the wire, the slower electricity will travel through it.

Finally, any obstructions or breaks in the wire can slow down how quickly electricity moves. This is why it’s important to ensure that wires are not damaged or kinked when running electrical systems. By making sure there are no obstructions in your wiring system, you can help ensure that electricity travels as quickly and efficiently as possible. [6]

Impedance Matching

Another factor which affects how quickly electricity travels is impedance matching. Impedance matching is the process of ensuring that the electrical resistance of different components in a system are similar. This helps to reduce any losses caused by differences in electrical resistance between components, allowing electricity to travel more quickly and efficiently through the system.

For instance, if two pieces of equipment have different electrical resistances then electricity will be lost as it moves between them. However, if the electrical resistance of both components is matched then this loss can be minimized.

Impedance matching is particularly important in complex systems such as audio equipment and other electronics. By ensuring that all of the components are impedance-matched, you can ensure that electricity travels through your system as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Alternatives to Electrical Currents

While electricity is the most common way to move energy through a system, there are also other methods of doing so. One alternative is light-emitting diodes (LEDs). LEDs work by converting electrical energy into light, and this light can be used to power other components in a system such as sensors or motors. LEDs offer several advantages over traditional electrical currents, such as being more efficient and durable.

Another alternative to using electrical currents is wireless power transmission. This method uses electromagnetic waves instead of wires to transfer energy to different components in a system. Wireless power transmission can be used in many different applications, from charging mobile phones to powering medical equipment. It offers several advantages over traditional methods of energy transfer, including being less expensive and easier to install.

Finally, using renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines can help to reduce the reliance on electrical power. These sources of energy are clean and sustainable, making them an attractive option for powering a system with minimal environmental impact.

No matter which method you choose for transferring energy through your system, it’s important to ensure that it is efficient and reliable. By taking the time to understand how electricity travels, choosing appropriate materials, and exploring other alternatives such as LEDs or renewable energy sources, you can help ensure your system operates as efficiently as possible. [7]

What is the speed of electricity?

The speed at which electricity travels depends on the material it is traveling through. Generally, electricity will travel faster through materials with lower resistance such as copper or aluminum. The length of a wire also affects how quickly electricity moves: longer wires will offer more resistance and slow down the current.

What is impedance matching?

Impedance matching is the process of ensuring that the electrical resistance of different components in a system are similar. This can help reduce any losses caused by differences in electrical resistance between components, allowing electricity to travel more quickly and efficiently through the system.

What are some alternatives to using electricity?

Some alternatives to using electrical currents include light-emitting diodes (LEDs), wireless power transmission, and renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines. Each of these methods can be used to transfer energy through a system in different ways, with their own advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to consider the needs of your system when choosing an alternative method for transferring energy.

Are there any other factors that affect electricity travel?

Yes, other factors such as temperature and any obstructions or breaks in the wire can affect how quickly electricity travels. The hotter the wire, the slower electricity will move through it, and any obstacles can slow down the current. It is important to make sure that wires are not damaged or kinked when running electrical systems in order to ensure that electricity travels as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Does the speed of electricity vary depending on the medium?

Yes, the speed of electricity will vary depending on the material it is traveling through. Generally, materials with lower resistances such as copper or aluminum will offer less resistance to electrical current and therefore allow electricity to travel faster. Other factors such as temperature or obstructions can also affect how quickly electricity moves.

Is the speed of electricity the same as the speed of light?

No, the speed of electricity is not the same as the speed of light. Electricity moves much slower than light and its speed will vary depending on the material it is traveling through. The length of a wire also affects how quickly electricity moves: longer wires will offer more resistance and slow down the current. Light, on the other hand, always travels at a constant speed of 299,792,458 meters per second.

How can I make sure my system operates as efficiently as possible?

In order to ensure that your system operates as efficiently as possible, it’s important to understand how electricity travels and take steps to minimize any losses due to resistance between components. This includes choosing materials with low electrical resistance such as copper or aluminum, and ensuring that any components that need to be impedance-matched are. Additionally, exploring alternatives such as LEDs or renewable energy sources can also help reduce your reliance on electrical power. Taking the time to understand how electricity travels and using appropriate materials can help ensure that your system operates as efficiently as possible.

How is the speed of electricity measured?

The speed of electricity is usually measured in terms of nano-seconds (ns). To measure the speed, a device called an oscilloscope can be used. This device is able to measure the time it takes for electrical current to move through different materials. It is important to note that the speed of electricity will vary depending on the material it is traveling through and any other obstructions in the way. Taking into account these variations can help to ensure that your system operates as efficiently as possible.

Is it possible to transfer energy without using wires?

Yes, it is possible to transfer energy wirelessly through the use of electromagnetic waves. Wireless power transmission can be used in a variety of applications, from charging mobile phones to powering medical equipment. With this method, energy is transferred through electromagnetic waves instead of through wires, making it a viable option in some cases where wiring may be difficult or impractical. However, it should also be noted that wireless power transmission can be less efficient than using traditional wiring as there can be losses due to interference and other factors.

What role does voltage play in the speed of electricity?

The voltage of a system plays a major role in the speed of electricity. Higher voltages will cause the current to move faster through the circuit, while lower voltages will slow down the current. It is important to choose an appropriate voltage for your system depending on what type of components you are using and how quickly you need electricity to travel. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that any components in the system are impedance-matched, as this can help reduce losses due to differences in electrical resistance between components.

How does the speed of electricity affect our daily life?

The speed of electricity affects our daily life in many ways. One of the most obvious is that it allows us to power our electronic devices, from computers and phones to TVs and appliances. Without electricity, none of these things would work. Additionally, because electricity travels at different speeds depending on the material it is travelling through, efficient design and engineering is required to ensure that the current moves quickly and efficiently through a system. This is especially important in large-scale power systems, which need to be designed carefully to ensure that electricity travels as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Useful Video: Almost simple #2: What is the speed of ELECTRICITY?

Electricity is a form of energy that travels quickly and efficiently. It moves at almost the speed of light, which is around 300 million meters per second. This means that when electricity is sent from one point to another, it can travel across long distances in a very short amount of time. This makes it an ideal power source for many applications. While there are other forms of energy that travel at slower speeds, electricity remains one of the most reliable and efficient sources of energy. With advancements in technology, electrical transmission systems are increasingly being used to power households and businesses around the world. In conclusion, understanding how fast electricity travels is essential for understanding how it is used in different applications.

• https://www.sciencefocus.com/science/how-fast-does-electricity-flow
• https://wtamu.edu/~cbaird/sq/2014/02/19/what-is-the-speed-of-electricity/
• https://www.uu.edu/dept/physics/scienceguys/2001Nov.cfm
• https://atlantickeyenergy.com/how-fast-does-electricity-travel/
• https://peaksubstation.com/how-fast-can-electricity-travel/
• https://www.scienceabc.com/nature/what-is-the-speed-of-electricity.html
• https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/does-electricity-travel-speed-light-jonathan-baker

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Although electricity has become an integral part of our lives, and life without is unimaginable, some of us still don’t understand how it all works. This article aims to help us understand how electricity travels through wires, up to our homes and businesses for consumption.

The discovery of electricity has dramatically influenced and impacted the world around us. Currently, we have massive grids and other power sources that generate electric power for consumption in our homes and offices. However, the science behind the production and how electricity travels through wires remains a mystery to many.

Electricity is a powerful force that exists naturally on this planet. We all rely on electricity from time to time. Some rely on electric power just like they do water and food.

Let us think for a minute; what would life be like with no electricity to power up the telephones , your favorite TV shows, and video games, among other gadgets?

It is undeniable that electricity is a force that exists to allow us to enjoy life in diverse ways.

Well, albeit getting to know how electricity works would be great since we will have the ability to enjoy it with a solid understanding.

Additionally, when we understand some of the principles and how electricity travels through wires will eliminate the multiple risks that come with electricity.

So How Can We Define Electricity?

To most individuals, electricity is perceived to be a mysterious force the pops up whenever we click a switch or plug in cables to a socket. I’m sure if we all had a chance to talk about electricity as we perceive it, we would end up having baskets full of hilarious answers.

Nonetheless, the best part of it is that these baskets will reveal the incredible power of imagination that our minds can conceive.

It was through this beautiful power that some great minds were able to discover electricity since the 17th century.

The likes of William Gilbert, Ben Franklin, Alessandro Volta, Michael Faraday, and Nikola Tesla, among many, are heroes in the discovery of electricity and shaping it to what we have today.

Electricity is termed to be the flow of electric charge within a complete circuit. While we may view the mechanics behind the generation and flow of electricity to be complicated, the basics of how electricity flows are quite easy to understand.

Therefore, let us define some terms used around electricity.

What is A Circuit?

The term circuit has its roots from the word circle; hence, we can think of it as a loop. The circuit is a pathway where electricity flows through from the source and back to the source.

Talking of circuits, they can either be open circuits and closed circuits.

With an open circuit, it means that there is a disconnect somewhere along the loop and electricity cannot flow.

With a closed circuit, the circle is complete; thus, electricity can flow. This principle forms the basis of electric switches.

See Related : Why is My Electric Bill So High?

What Are Electrons?

An atom is the smallest constituent unit of an element that can exist, but within each atom, there are three particles. The three particles include electrons, protons, and neutrons.

The electrons carry a negative electromagnetic charge and have unique characteristics as they can skip from one atom to another.

The ability of an electron to disassociate itself from one atom and move to the adjacent atom is what makes it the most vital particle when it comes to electricity.

This movement of electrons from one atom to another is what creates an electric current. A consistent flow of electrons within a circuit determines the current in a wire. See how to calculate potential energy to understand electrons and energy.

What is Current?

Electric current is defined as the flow of electrons in a circuit. This current is derived from the continuous jumping of the negatively charged electrons from one atom to another. The standard unit of measurement of electric current is Ampere (A).

Electric current exists in two forms, the direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC). The physics around these two might be a little bit complicated, but the fundamental difference between the two depends on how the current flows.

The type of electric current affects how electricity travels through wires. The electrical current in direct current tends to flow in a single direction whereas it is quite the opposite in alternating current since it reverses direction.

What is Voltage?

Voltage refers to the pressure of electrons in a circuit. In some cases, a voltage can also refer to as the electromotive force.

Voltage is measured in volts (V) and the conventional circuits installed in our homes and offices are generally 120 volts or 240 volts. Most light fixtures are fed by 120 volts while the large appliances use the 240 volts.

What is Resistance?

With regards to electricity, resistance is an electrical quantity that measures the opposition offered by a material to the flow of electric current. Resistance also affects how electricity travels through wires. A cable that has a low resistance has a high flow of electrons, while the one with high resistance has a low flow of electrons.

The measurement of resistance is Ohms, and too much resistance in a circuit can cause an overload which might potentially result in a fire. The reason being, resistance generates some heat within a circuit. The working of an incandescent light bulb has its basis on this principle.

Now that we understand some of the basic terms in the field of with electricity let’s take a deeper dive into the generation of electricity as well as try and see how does electricity travel at a greater depth.

How Does Electricity Travel

For electricity to flow in any material, the material ought to be a good conductor of electricity. Good conductors easily allow the flow of electron from one point to another. Secondly, electric conductors of electricity exhibit relatively low resistance to the electric current compared to the poor conductors (electrical insulators).

Poor conductors of electricity possess high resistance to the flow of electrons, thus hindering electric current from flowing from one point to another.

Electric wires are manufactured using electrical conductors and insulated with a poor conductor. In most cases, copper is the most used metal in manufacturing wires.

Copper has the least resistivity, thus making it the best option as it also helps reduce energy loss.

Where Does Electricity Start

It is essential to consider that a utility generator ought to be present for the electrons to flow in circuit wires. A utility generator is essentially a turbine that rotates huge coils of metal wires within massive magnets.

Back in 1931, Michael Faraday discovered how to create electric charges. When an electrical conductor turns within a magnetic field, it produces electric charges.

Faraday’s discovery is still being used in modern turbines as well as generators, whether being powered by water, steam, or wind. The metal coils rotate around the magnetic field, thus kick-starting the flow of electrons.

If we may use the analogy of a water pump, the pump does not create water but rather facilitate the flow of water. The same case applies to generators; they do not generate electricity but facilitate the flow of electrons through the wire.

The rotating coils of wires cut across the electromagnetic fields, thus generating electric current within the cable. The rotations can, however, be designed to either produce alternating current or direct current.

It is also important to note that some electric power sources may not require turbines such as the solar panel which generates direct current.

See Related : An Overview of Prepaid Electricity

How Does Electricity Travel Through Wire

As earlier discussed, what travels through the wires physically is not electricity but rather the negatively charged electrons. These electrons that jump from one atom to another are not firmly bound and are free to roam. We can also refer to them as free electrons.

These free electrons frequently bounce and jiggle around at room temperature since the temperatures are high, that is, in comparison to the absolute zero. The force from the turbines tends to stabilize these electrons as they slowly drift in one direction.

For the alternating current, the electrons slowly drift in one direction for about 0.02 seconds and then drift back in reverse for 0.02 seconds.

Given that the electrons drift slowly, one may wonder how fast does the electricity move? Electrical energy travels as electromagnetic waves at the speed of light, which is 3*108 meters per second.

The speed of electricity is quite fast even though the electrons move quite slowly.

The electric field produces the force that causes these electrons to drift slowly. The strength of this electric field is what we refer to as an electromotive force or preferably voltage.

On the other hand, the slow movement of the electrons in the wire results in an electric current. Let’s borrow the idea of water flowing in a pipe to help us better understand how electricity travels through wires.

Although the flow of water in a pipe is not the perfect analogy but will assist in creating a mental image. In our analogy, water will represent the electrons while the pipeline will be the wire.

The voltage can be likened to the pressure of water in a pipe, while current is the amount of water flowing through the same pipe.

See Related : Interesting Facts About Electricity

What is Transmission?

Concerning how electricity travels through wires, the transmission is the transport of electricity from the source, to the consumption point. While thinking about the electrical grid, it is a considerable network designed to transmit electric power.

Generally, electricity from the power plants moves through transmission lines to the substations. From the substations, the voltage is lowered and sent through distribution lines to our homes.

The transmission lines are fed with high voltage electricity since high voltage minimizes line losses. About 6% of the power that gets to the transmission lines is lost due to resistance of the wires. It is important to note that electric wires also provide some resistance to the electric current.

Bringing resistance into the picture clearly defines how transmission and voltage work together. Ohms law states that “Electric current is directly proportional to the voltage, while the current is inversely proportional to the resistance.”

After increasing the voltage, the electrical current increases, which then minimizes power loss during transmission.

Some of the factors that increase the resistance of a wire include:

• Temperature: The cooler the wire, the lesser the resistance than warmer wires.
• Cross-sectional area: The thick wires have lower resistance and vice versa.
• Length of the wire: shorter wires will experience lesser resistance while longer wires will experience more resistance.
• The material used to manufacture the wire also determines the resistance of the wire.

See Related : Energy Conservation Methods to Consider

Conclusion On How Electricity Travels Through Wires

How electricity travels through wires is not magic. The process is not hard to understand either, but rather simple science. Electric current is just the flow of electrons in a circuit.

For instance, for the light bulb to go on when you press that switch at home, electricity flows from the power stations through the lines, to the lamp, and then finally back to the power source.

Do you now know how it all works? Leave us your comment below.

Related Resources

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The lights turn on very quickly when I flip the switch. Just how fast does electricity flow in a wire?

November 2001.

To answer this question we need to look at matter itself at a most basic level. Matter is made up of small units called atoms. At this atomic level matter possesses two basic characteristics. Matter has mass and it may have an electrical charge, either positive, negative, or it could be neutral with no charge. Each atom contains three types of particles with different characteristics; positive protons, neutral neutrons, and negative electrons.

Electric current (electricity) is a flow or movement of electrical charge. The electricity that is conducted through copper wires in your home consists of moving electrons. The protons and neutrons of the copper atoms do not move. The actual progression of the individual electrons in a given direction through the wire is quite slow. The electrons have to work their way through the billions of atoms in the wire and this takes considerable time. In the case of a 12 gauge copper wire carrying 10 amperes of current (typical of home wiring), the individual electrons only move about 0.02 cm per sec or about 0.5 inches per minute (in science this is called the drift velocity of the electrons.). If this is the situation in nature, why do the lights come on so quickly? At this speed it would take the electrons hours to get to the lights.

Atoms are very tiny, less than a billionth of a meter in diameter. The wire is "full" of atoms and free electrons and the electrons move among the atoms. In a typical copper wire there would be trillions of electrons flowing past any given point in the wire every second, but they would be passing that point very slowly. Think of the wire in comparison to a pipe full of marbles. If we push another marble into a filled pipe, then one marble would have to exit the other end. Electrons are like that in a wire. If one moves they all have to move. Thus when you turn on a switch an electrical potential difference (created by a generator) immediately causes a force that tries to move the electrons. If you make one electron move when you turn on a switch, the electrons throughout the wire move, even if the wire is miles long. Therefore when you turn on a switch, the electrons in the light start moving "instantly" as far as we are concerned, i.e. something starts to happen throughout the electrical system. Although the electrons are actually moving through the wire slowly, we say that the speed of electricity is near the speed of light (extremely fast). What we really mean is that the effects from the electricity occur "instantly." The light comes on the instant you flip a switch. You do not have to wait for electrons to flow from the switch to the light.

Velocity of Electron Flow: Unraveling How Fast Does Electricity Travel

The passage of electrons along a conductor inside an electrical field is what electricity in motion is all about. To give you a simple example, an electrical cord that links a table lamp to a power source contains a copper wire that works as a conductor.

This energy moves at the speed of light (roughly) in the shape of electromagnetic waves. Light travels at a speed of 670,616,629 miles per hour, or 300 million meters per second. Electrons within the electromagnetic field or waves, on the other hand, travel the electromagnetic field at a slightly slower rate. This is referred to as drift velocity.

Before we start discussing some important things, you should know beforehand that these things are not really something that anyone can easily grasp especially if you are just curious about what goes on in you electrical system. If you are researching about electricity in particular, we can definitely help you know more about it in just a second. However, if you are experiencing any issues with your electrical system, make sure that you get help from professional electricians like Arc Angel Electric so that you won’t have to face any potential danger surrounding electricity.

With that in mind, here are a few concepts you should know about when talking about electricity and electrons in particular.

Electromagnetic Waves

Electromagnetic waves are a type of energy made up of magnetic and electrical fields that oscillate. They are created when charged particles, such as electrons, are accelerated. Electromagnetic waves can move through a vacuum (similar to space) as well as many materials and media.

The electromagnetic spectrum is made up of electromagnetic waves with a wide range of frequencies and wavelengths. Radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays are all part of the spectrum. Each wave has a unique frequency, wavelength, and energy.

These waves are distinguished by their capacity to travel through space without the use of a medium (such as air or water) for transmission. In a vacuum, they can travel at the speed of light, which is roughly 299,792,458 meters per second (or approximately 670,616,629 miles per hour). Electromagnetic waves are important in many elements of our daily life, including communication, technology, and light behavior.

Electromagnetic Waves and Electricity

Electromagnetic waves are important in the generation, transmission, and use of electricity. Here are a few highlights:

Electricity generating: Electromagnetic waves, specifically light, are used in a variety of electricity generation processes. Photovoltaic (solar) cells, for example, use the photoelectric effect to turn sunlight into electricity. Another way in which changing magnetic fields produce electric currents in conductive materials is electromagnetic induction, which is utilized in power plants, generators, and transformers.

Electricity transmission: Electric power is frequently transmitted over vast distances via power lines. For efficient transmission, electromagnetic waves in the form of alternating current (AC) are used. AC electricity generates oscillating electric and magnetic fields, which propagate as electromagnetic waves through power lines.

Electromagnetic waves are widely used in wireless communication systems. Radio waves, microwaves, and other electromagnetic spectrum segments are used in broadcasting, cellular communication, Wi-Fi, satellite communication, and other applications. These waves encode information as fluctuations in amplitude, frequency, or phase.

Electrical appliances and devices: Electromagnetic waves are used in the operation of many electrical appliances and gadgets. Electric motors and transformers, for example, rely on the interaction of magnetic fields and electric currents to convert electrical energy to mechanical energy or vice versa.

Electromagnetic interference: Electromagnetic waves can sometimes interfere with the operation of electrical systems. This type of interference, known as electromagnetic interference (EMI), can interrupt, degrade, or malfunction sensitive electronic equipment. Shielding, grounding, and good design are all used to reduce EMI.

In conclusion, electromagnetic waves are inextricably linked to the generation, transport, and consumption of energy, enabling a wide range of technologies and applications in our modern world.

Free Electrons

Conduction electrons, or free electrons, are electrons that are not strongly bonded to an atom and are relatively movable inside a material. The outermost electrons of the atoms of a solid, such as a metal, are loosely bound and can flow freely throughout the substance. These liberated electrons add to the material’s electrical conductivity.

The existence of free electrons, for example, in metals allows for the flow of electric current. Free electrons can flow in response to an electric field when a potential difference (voltage) is introduced across a metal conductor. An electric current is formed by the movement of electrons. Metals are generally good conductors of electricity due to the high mobility of free electrons.

In contrast, electrons in insulators are securely bonded to their individual atoms, with very few free electrons accessible for conduction. Insulators are hence weak electrical conductors.

The quantity of free electrons in semiconductors can be changed by adding impurities or applying external factors such as temperature. Because of this feature, semiconductors can be both conductive and insulating, making them vital components in electronic devices.

Understanding free electron behavior and interactions with materials is critical in the study of electrical conduction and the design of electronic circuits and devices.

Free electrons play a crucial role in the conduction of electricity. When a potential difference (voltage) is applied across a conductor, such as a metal wire, the presence of free electrons allows for the flow of electric current.

Free electrons and electricity

Electric current: Free electrons are able to move through a conductor in response to an applied electric field. When a voltage is applied across a conductor, the free electrons experience a force and start to drift in a particular direction. This movement of electrons constitutes an electric current. The greater the number of free electrons and their mobility, the higher the conductivity of the material.

Conductivity: Materials with a higher concentration of free electrons or greater electron mobility tend to be good conductors of electricity. Metals, for example, have a large number of free electrons that can move freely throughout the material, allowing for efficient flow of electric current. In contrast, insulators have fewer free electrons, limiting their ability to conduct electricity.

Resistance: The presence of free electrons in a conductor also gives rise to electrical resistance. As the free electrons move through the conductor, they collide with atoms or other imperfections in the material. These collisions impede the flow of electrons and result in resistance to the current. The resistance of a material is determined by factors such as the number of free electrons, their mobility, and the characteristics of the material itself.

Electric circuits: Free electrons enable the functioning of electric circuits. In a closed circuit, the presence of free electrons allows for the flow of current from a power source (such as a battery) through the connected components (such as resistors, capacitors, and light bulbs) and back to the source. The behavior of free electrons and their interaction with circuit elements determine the flow of current and the overall operation of the circuit.

Understanding the behavior and properties of free electrons is essential in the field of electrical engineering and the design and analysis of electrical circuits.

Estimating the electron speed in electricity

Every electron has a negative charge. A number of electrons are permanently attached to an atom. Others can freely move inside the conductor grid, which is constructed of safe atoms. An electrical charge is formed when these liberated electrons travel the power grid and bounce around.

The quantity actual speed of electrons that can travel through the substance determines its conductivity. Certain substances (such as copper) carry electricity better than others.

Electrons move in the exact contrary and opposite direction that of a positive charge because they are negatively charged. As a result, unbound electrons bounce in various directions, rather randomly. This intense bouncing contributes to the formation of an electric charge, but it is useless without precise direction. This is when an electrical force, referred to as electromagnetic force or EMF, enters the picture.

Recognizing electrical currents

Electrical currents in wires are analogous to water flowing through a conduit. The flow will be stronger if there exists greater force at one end. When a wire is linked to a battery or a mains electricity outlet, it is analogous to putting pressure at one end of a pipe – except that instead of water, you transmit an electrical field to copper wire.

While the rate of transmission of an electric current is about equal to the speed of light, electrons within an electromagnetic wave may only be able to move a few millimeters per second. This is why electrons are bouncing across the conductor, creating an electromagnetic energy there, but they have no intention of traveling with it.

Direct current and alternating current

Consider the differences between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). In alternating current, the current through metal wire changes direction around 50-60 times every second, and the majority of the electrons involved never leave the wire. However, electricity continues to flow as a result of the electrons’ excitation.

Direct current, or DC, is distinguished by the fact that electricity flows in just one direction. Although DC is essentially a raw current, it may be transformed into AC and utilized to power buildings. Because alternating current (AC) is very easy to distribute over long distances, it is used in the majority of residences. It is also considered to be safer than direct current (DC).

Furthermore, alternating currents are capable of being downscaled or upscaled based on the power requirements of a home or company. The usage of transformers allows for this scalability. AC electricity that is not used immediately will effectively slowly make its way back to the power system – and we are now aware that it does so at breakneck speed!

Individual Electron Velocity

Copper conducts due to the fact that it is brimming with free electrons. Because of their closeness to the nucleus, electrons in the valence or outermost layer of their atoms are least drawn to it and can so exit or free themselves from its force. When we attach the metal to a battery, the created electric field pushes the free electrons farther from the terminal that is negative as well as toward the positive terminal. Electricity is made up of this flow of charges.

The noun “flow” can nevertheless be exceedingly misleading: electricity is not defined by a constant, continuous stream of electrons gravitating towards the positive terminal. The technical definition word electricity only mentions “movement”; the entirely unplanned movement of electrons or charges. Inside the conductor, the charges practically go berserk, stumbling and smashing not only with one another but also with the rest of the metal’s atoms on their way to the terminal. This description also explains the concept of resistance pretty well: collisions generate heat and restrict their travel, lowering the value of the current.

Therefore, the speed of motion of a single electron equals the speed amid collisions. How long does it take an electron for it to move one nanometer? Singular velocity is determined in the millions of meters per second range. Nevertheless, since their mobility is random, each electron moves at a different speed.

Standard Or Electron Drift Velocity

The ambiguity is bothersome since it makes computations difficult. To eliminate this variability, we must take an average of all velocity values before and after the impacts. The average velocity, additionally referred to as drift velocity, is thought to be the average speed at which electricity moves.

Certain electrons travel very quickly in electric currents, while others do not. The average will obviously be significantly lower than a million meters per second. What is astonishing is that averaging the velocities propels the decimal point on the left to an unfathomable distance. The drift velocity of electrons across a 3.00 x 10-6 m2 copper wire carrying a 10A current is roughly 2.5 × 10-4 m/s, or one-fourth of a millimeter every second!

Drift velocity increases as DC voltage rises, but it stays constant if AC voltage decreases or increases constantly negligible. The drift velocity of AC current is hundreds to thousands of times less than that of electron drift velocity of DC current. While the previously mentioned copper wire delivering a DC current moved at 250 micrometers per second, the identical copper wire carrying an AC current moved at 0.25 micrometers per second.

Although the contact point or switch that lets the electrons escape is no greater than 0.25 micrometers in length. Consider that, unlike DC currents, electrons in an AC current do not flow linearly forward, but rather alternate between both terminals; if they alternate at 0.25 micrometers per second, do they then, paradoxically, not reach the circuit at all?

Signal Velocity

Finally, some people think that electricity moves at the speed of electricity that light does since it mix the speed of each of the electrons with the speed of electromagnetic waves emitted by the electrons. Although an electron is an indivisible, mass-carrying particle that cannot move at the speed of light is still its characteristic.

Indeed, electromagnetic waves travel at the speed of light; in fact, light is an electromagnetic wave. The speed of an electromagnetic wave, or electricity flow on the other hand, varies with the qualities of the medium through which it travels. The waves emitted by electrons travel at 300 million meters per second in a state of vacuum, but only if the arrangement or geometry of the conductor allows it.

The waves of electromagnetic fields, or signals, can travel at speeds ranging from 50% to 90% of the speed of light, according to whether the electrons are traveling in a ‘poor’ or ‘good’ conductor. How does the bulb in your bedroom glow practically instantly if electrons physically drift to complete a circuit? Because the action of electromagnetic waves or the signal propagates at a velocity greater than the speed of light, it is perceived as essentially instantaneous. As a result, the race cannot end in a tie; the photon will always be triumphant.

Consider this: imagine a line of people who are blatantly impatient and frantically fidget in their places. At once, the person at the back of the line chooses to push the individual in front, who then pushes the one in front of her, and so on. The push or signal ‘travels’ in a moment, but the person or electron does not. If the people had lined up to enter a door, the distributed push would undoubtedly be the first to reach the door. The first pusher, on the other hand, would be far further behind. People would keep trying to fidget as they saw individual electrons zip along at incredible speeds. Nevertheless, the queue advances at a slow speed on average.

Electricity Speed and Solar Panels

Many people believe that the electricity generated by solar panels travels at a slower rate than electricity obtained from the electrical power grid. This, however, is a myth. Their speeds are identical since the source of the energy has no effect on their speed.

Solar panels provide direct current electricity that moves at approximately the speed of light. You cannot, nevertheless, utilize this electricity to power your appliances. To do so, you’ll need a solar inverter to convert DC electricity to AC energy.

Though it may appear obvious that transferring electricity from one current to another would result in a loss of speed, this is not the case in this circumstance. In fact, you stand to gain nothing. Your inverter merely enables you to power your home while keeping the electricity speed constant.

If you produce more energy than you are able to use (as in the summer), you have two choices. One option is to feed extra energy back into the electricity system. However, owing to net metering, there are ways to store the electricity and use it later.

Why Electrons Cannot Travel At The Speed Of Light

There are only three possible outcomes for this race involving an electron and a photon: whether the electron wins, the photon wins, or the contest finishes in an even score. The first possibility, unquestionably, has to be rejected; it is a physical impossibility; nothing can travel faster than light. So, does the photon triumph? If so, why does the race not end in a tie?

In a vacuum, not to mention inside a conductor, the electron cannot win the race. Because the electron has mass, it is unable to move at the same speed as light. Light is the quickest thing in the Universe because it is massless; it carries no luggage and has no inertia that slows it down.

The mass of an electron may be comically small, but it is sufficient to prohibit the elementary particle from moving at 300 million m/s. In fact, excluding the photon, which has no mass, the electron cannot be considered the lightest particle we’ve identified; that honor goes to the neutrino. A neutrino is over 500,000 times more massive than an electron.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is electricity as fast as the speed of light?

Electricity does not travel at the speed of light. The speed of electricity depends on the medium through which it travels.

How fast does electricity travel in mph?

The speed of electricity can vary depending on the circumstances, but it typically travels at a fraction of the speed of light. In most cases, it moves at speeds ranging from about 50 to 99% of the speed of light.

Does electricity travel faster than lightning?

No, electricity does not travel faster than lightning. Lightning is a visible discharge of electricity that can move at speeds of around 220,000 miles per hour (354,000 kilometers per hour), which is much faster than the typical speed of electricity in power lines or conductors.

How fast does electricity move in air?

The speed of electricity in air is similar to its speed in other conductive materials, such as wires. It typically moves at a fraction of the speed of light, around 90-99% of the speed of light.

What is the speed of electricity?

The speed of electricity varies depending on the medium through which it travels. In a vacuum or in the theoretical absence of resistance, the speed of electricity would be approximately equal to the speed of light, which is about 299,792,458 meters per second (or roughly 670,616,629 miles per hour).

How much faster is electricity than light?

In most cases, electricity does not travel faster than light. The speed of electricity is typically slower than the speed of light, ranging from about 50 to 99% of the speed of light, depending on the medium through which it travels.

How fast is the speed of electricity?

As mentioned earlier, the speed of electricity varies depending on the medium. In a vacuum or in the theoretical absence of resistance, it would be approximately equal to the speed of light, which is about 299,792,458 meters per second (or roughly 670,616,629 miles per hour).

What is the speed of electricity called?

The speed of electricity is often referred to as the “velocity factor” or “propagation speed.”

What is the max speed of electricity?

The maximum speed of electricity is determined by the speed of light in the given medium. In a vacuum, the speed of light is the maximum speed, which is about 299,792,458 meters per second (or roughly 670,616,629 miles per hour).

How fast do electric waves travel?

Electric waves, also known as electromagnetic waves, including radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays, all travel at the speed of light in a vacuum, which is about 299,792,458 meters per second (or roughly 670,616,629 miles per hour).

As you’ve already guessed from all the details we’ve given you so far, the answer to the issue at hand, “How fast does electricity travel?” is fairly easy. Its speed is comparable to that of light and is independent of the energy source. As a result, your solar panels will generate electricity at the same pace and strength as your utility provider. If you have any concerns with your electricity and would like to know more about this system or would like to have something fixed in your home, you can contact Arc Angel Electric to solve any underlying issues with your home’s electrical system. Our professionals will answer any more lingering questions you have regarding electricity. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Arc Angel Electric today.

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Why is the speed of light the way it is?

It's just plain weird.

Paul M. Sutter is an astrophysicist at SUNY Stony Brook and the Flatiron Institute, host of Ask a Spaceman and Space Radio , and author of " How to Die in Space ." He contributed this article to Space.com's Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights . 

We all know and love the speed of light — 299,792,458 meters per second — but why does it have the value that it does? Why isn't it some other number? And why do we care so much about some random speed of electromagnetic waves? Why did it become such a cornerstone of physics? 

Well, it's because the speed of light is just plain weird.

Related: Constant speed of light: Einstein's special relativity survives a high-energy test

Putting light to the test

The first person to realize that light does indeed have a speed at all was an astronomer by the name of Ole Romer. In the late 1600s, he was obsessed with some strange motions of the moon Io around Jupiter. Every once in a while, the great planet would block our view of its little moon, causing an eclipse, but the timing between eclipses seemed to change over the course of the year. Either something funky was happening with the orbit of Io — which seemed suspicious — or something else was afoot.

After a couple years of observations, Romer made the connection. When we see Io get eclipsed, we're in a certain position in our own orbit around the sun. But by the next time we see another eclipse, a few days later, we're in a slightly different position, maybe closer or farther away from Jupiter than the last time. If we are farther away than the last time we saw an eclipse, then that means we have to wait a little bit of extra time to see the next one because it takes that much longer for the light to reach us, and the reverse is true if we happen to be a little bit closer to Jupiter.

The only way to explain the variations in the timing of eclipses of Io is if light has a finite speed.

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Making it mean something

Continued measurements over the course of the next few centuries solidified the measurement of the speed of light, but it wasn't until the mid-1800s when things really started to come together. That's when the physicist James Clerk Maxwell accidentally invented light.

Maxwell had been playing around with the then-poorly-understood phenomena of electricity and magnetism when he discovered a single unified picture that could explain all the disparate observations. Laying the groundwork for what we now understand to be the electromagnetic force , in those equations he discovered that changing electric fields can create magnetic fields, and vice versa. This allows waves of electricity to create waves of magnetism, which go on to make waves of electricity and back and forth and back and forth, leapfrogging over each other, capable of traveling through space.

And when he went to calculate the speed of these so-called electromagnetic waves, Maxwell got the same number that scientists had been measuring as the speed of light for centuries. Ergo, light is made of electromagnetic waves and it travels at that speed, because that is exactly how quickly waves of electricity and magnetism travel through space.

And this was all well and good until Einstein came along a few decades later and realized that the speed of light had nothing to do with light at all. With his special theory of relativity , Einstein realized the true connection between time and space, a unified fabric known as space-time. But as we all know, space is very different than time. A meter or a foot is very different than a second or a year. They appear to be two completely different things.

So how could they possibly be on the same footing?

There needed to be some sort of glue, some connection that allowed us to translate between movement in space and movement in time. In other words, we need to know how much one meter of space, for example, is worth in time. What's the exchange rate? Einstein found that there was a single constant, a certain speed, that could tell us how much space was equivalent to how much time, and vice versa.

Einstein's theories didn't say what that number was, but then he applied special relativity to the old equations of Maxwell and found that this conversion rate is exactly the speed of light.

Of course, this conversion rate, this fundamental constant that unifies space and time, doesn't know what an electromagnetic wave is, and it doesn't even really care. It's just some number, but it turns out that Maxwell had already calculated this number and discovered it without even knowing it. That's because all massless particles are able to travel at this speed, and since light is massless, it can travel at that speed. And so, the speed of light became an important cornerstone of modern physics.

But still, why that number, with that value, and not some other random number? Why did nature pick that one and no other? What's going on?

Related: The genius of Albert Einstein: his life, theories and impact on science

Making it meaningless

Well, the number doesn't really matter. It has units after all: meters per second. And in physics any number that has units attached to it can have any old value it wants, because it means you have to define what the units are. For example, in order to express the speed of light in meters per second, first you need to decide what the heck a meter is and what the heck a second is. And so the definition of the speed of light is tied up with the definitions of length and time.

In physics, we're more concerned with constants that have no units or dimensions — in other words, constants that appear in our physical theories that are just plain numbers. These appear much more fundamental, because they don't depend on any other definition. Another way of saying it is that, if we were to meet some alien civilization , we would have no way of understanding their measurement of the speed of light, but when it comes to dimensionless constants, we can all agree. They're just numbers.

One such number is known as the fine structure constant, which is a combination of the speed of light, Planck's constant , and something known as the permittivity of free space. Its value is approximately 0.007. 0.007 what? Just 0.007. Like I said, it's just a number.

So on one hand, the speed of light can be whatever it wants to be, because it has units and we need to define the units. But on the other hand, the speed of light can't be anything other than exactly what it is, because if you were to change the speed of light, you would change the fine structure constant. But our universe has chosen the fine structure constant to be approximately 0.007, and nothing else. That is simply the universe we live in, and we get no choice about it at all. And since this is fixed and universal, the speed of light has to be exactly what it is.

So why is the fine structure constant exactly the number that it is, and not something else? Good question. We don't know.

Learn more by listening to the episode "Why is the speed of light the way it is?" on the Ask A Spaceman podcast, available on iTunes and on the Web at http://www.askaspaceman.com. Thanks to Robert H, Michael E., @DesRon94, Evan W., Harry A., @twdixon, Hein P., Colin E., and Lothian53 for the questions that led to this piece! Ask your own question on Twitter using #AskASpaceman or by following Paul @PaulMattSutter and facebook.com/PaulMattSutter.

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Paul M. Sutter is an astrophysicist at SUNY Stony Brook and the Flatiron Institute in New York City. Paul received his PhD in Physics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2011, and spent three years at the Paris Institute of Astrophysics, followed by a research fellowship in Trieste, Italy, His research focuses on many diverse topics, from the emptiest regions of the universe to the earliest moments of the Big Bang to the hunt for the first stars. As an "Agent to the Stars," Paul has passionately engaged the public in science outreach for several years. He is the host of the popular "Ask a Spaceman!" podcast, author of "Your Place in the Universe" and "How to Die in Space" and he frequently appears on TV — including on The Weather Channel, for which he serves as Official Space Specialist.

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• voidpotentialenergy This is just my opinion but i think L speed is it's speed because the particle part of it is the fastest it can interact with the quanta distance in quantum fluctuation. Light is particle and wave so the wave happens in the void between quanta. Gravity probably travels in that void and why gravity seems instant. Reply
• rod The space.com article wraps up the discussion with, "So on one hand, the speed of light can be whatever it wants to be, because it has units and we need to define the units. But on the other hand, the speed of light can't be anything other than exactly what it is, because if you were to change the speed of light, you would change the fine structure constant. But our universe has chosen the fine structure constant to be approximately 0.007, and nothing else. That is simply the universe we live in, and we get no choice about it at all. And since this is fixed and universal, the speed of light has to be exactly what it is. So why is the fine structure constant exactly the number that it is, and not something else? Good question. We don't know." It seems that the *universe* made this decision, *But our universe has chosen the fine structure constant to be...* I did not know that the universe was capable of making decisions concerning constants used in physics. E=mc^2 is a serious constant. Look at nuclear weapons development, explosive yields, and stellar evolution burn rates for p-p chain and CNO fusion rates. The report indicates why alpha (fine structure constant) is what it is and c is what it is, *We don't know*. Reply

Admin said: We all know and love the speed of light, but why does it have the value that it does? Why isn't it some other number? And why did it become such a cornerstone of physics? Why is the speed of light the way it is? : Read more

rod said: The space.com article wraps up the discussion with, "So on one hand, the speed of light can be whatever it wants to be, because it has units and we need to define the units. But on the other hand, the speed of light can't be anything other than exactly what it is, because if you were to change the speed of light, you would change the fine structure constant. But our universe has chosen the fine structure constant to be approximately 0.007, and nothing else. That is simply the universe we live in, and we get no choice about it at all. And since this is fixed and universal, the speed of light has to be exactly what it is. So why is the fine structure constant exactly the number that it is, and not something else? Good question. We don't know." It seems that the *universe* made this decision, *But our universe has chosen the fine structure constant to be...* I did not know that the universe was capable of making decisions concerning constants used in physics. E=mc^2 is a serious constant. Look at nuclear weapons development, explosive yields, and stellar evolution burn rates for p-p chain and CNO fusion rates. The report indicates why alpha (fine structure constant) is what it is and c is what it is, *We don't know*.

• rod FYI. When someone says *the universe has chosen*, I am reminded of these five lessons from a 1982 Fed. court trial. The essential characteristics of science are: It is guided by natural law; It has to be explanatory by reference to natural law; It is testable against the empirical world; Its conclusions are tentative, i.e., are not necessarily the final word; and It is falsifiable. Five important points about science. Reply
• Gary If the universe is expanding , how can the speed of light be constant ( miles per second , if each mile is getting longer ) ? Can light's velocity be constant while the universe expands ? So, with the expansion of the universe , doesn't the speed of light need to increase in order to stay at a constant velocity in miles per second ? Or, do the miles in the universe remain the same length as the universe 'adds' miles to its diameter ? Are the miles lengthening or are they simply being added / compounded ? Reply
• Gary Lets say we're in outer space and we shoot a laser through a block of glass. What causes the speed of the laser light to return to the speed it held prior to entering the block of glass ? Is there some medium in the vacuum of space that governs the speed of light ? Do the atoms in the glass push it back up to its original speed. If so, why don't those same atoms constantly push the light while it travels through the block of glass ? Reply

Gary said: Lets say we're in outer space and we shoot a laser through a block of glass. What causes the speed of the laser light to return to the speed it held prior to entering the block of glass ? Is there some medium in the vacuum of space that governs the speed of light ? Do the atoms in the glass push it back up to its original speed. If so, why don't those same atoms constantly push the light while it travels through the block of glass ?

Gary said: If the universe is expanding , how can the speed of light be constant ( miles per second , if each mile is getting longer ) ? Can light's velocity be constant while the universe expands ? So, with the expansion of the universe , doesn't the speed of light need to increase in order to stay at a constant velocity in miles per second ? Or, do the miles in the universe remain the same length as the universe 'adds' miles to its diameter ? Are the miles lengthening or are they simply being added / compounded ?

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