Difference between Ohmic and non ohmic conductors

<<2/”>a href=”https://exam.pscnotes.com/5653-2/”>p>ohmic and non-ohmic Conductors, combining information, tables, advantages/disadvantages, similarities, and FAQs:

Introduction

Electrical conductors are materials that allow the flow of electric current. They are broadly classified into two categories: ohmic and non-ohmic conductors. This categorization is based on how their resistance behaves with changes in voltage and current.

Ohmic conductors obey Ohm’s law, a fundamental principle in electricity. Ohm’s law states that the current through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to the voltage across the two points, and inversely proportional to the resistance between them.

Non-ohmic conductors do not obey Ohm’s law. Their resistance varies with changes in voltage or current, leading to a non-linear relationship between voltage and current.

Key Differences: Ohmic vs. Non-Ohmic Conductors

CharacteristicOhmic ConductorsNon-Ohmic Conductors
Ohm’s LawObeys Ohm’s law (V = IR)Does not obey Ohm’s law
ResistanceConstant resistance, irrespective of voltage or currentResistance changes with voltage or current
V-I GraphStraight line passing through the originNon-linear curve
Temperature EffectResistance may change slightly with temperatureResistance changes significantly with temperature
ExamplesMetals (copper, silver, gold), electrolytesSemiconductors, filament lamps, diodes

Advantages and Disadvantages

Ohmic Conductors

  • Advantages:
    • Predictable behavior: Their consistent resistance makes them ideal for precise circuit design.
    • Wide range of applications: Used in most electrical wiring, resistors, and heating Elements.
  • Disadvantages:
    • Limited functionality: Not suitable for applications where a variable resistance is required.

Non-Ohmic Conductors

  • Advantages:
    • Versatile: Their variable resistance allows for a wide range of applications.
    • Controllable: Can be used to regulate current flow in circuits.
  • Disadvantages:
    • Unpredictable behavior: Their changing resistance can make circuit design more complex.
    • Temperature sensitive: Their performance can be affected by temperature changes.

Similarities

  • Both conduct electricity.
  • Both are used in various electrical and electronic devices.
  • Both can be affected by temperature.

FAQs on Ohmic and Non-Ohmic Conductors

Q: Is the human body an ohmic or non-ohmic conductor?

A: The human body is considered a non-ohmic conductor because its resistance can vary depending on factors like skin moisture and contact area.

Q: Are all metals ohmic conductors?

A: Most metals are considered ohmic conductors at normal temperatures, but their resistance can change at very high or very low temperatures.

Q: Why do filament lamps have a non-linear V-I graph?

A: The filament in a lamp heats up as current passes through it, increasing its resistance and resulting in a non-linear relationship between voltage and current.

Q: Can a non-ohmic conductor behave like an ohmic conductor under certain conditions?

A: Yes, some non-ohmic conductors can exhibit ohmic behavior within a limited range of voltage or current.

Let me know if you’d like more details on any specific aspect of ohmic and non-ohmic conductors!

Index