Resistivity Calculator
Calculate the resistivity of a conductor
How to Calculate Resistivity
Resistivity is a measure of how strongly a material opposes the flow of electric current. The formula relates resistivity to resistance, length, and cross-sectional area of the conductor.
Resistivity Formula
Quick Trick: To find resistivity, use ρ = R ⋅ (L / A)!
Understand the Variables
Resistivity is a measure of how strongly a material opposes the flow of electric current. The formula relates resistivity to resistance, length, and cross-sectional area of the conductor.
For example, if you have a conductor with a resistance of 5 Ω, a length of 2 m, and a cross-sectional area of 1 m², you can calculate the resistivity.
The units for each variable are as follows:
- ρ = Resistivity (Ω⋅m)
- R = Resistance (Ω)
- L = Length (m)
- A = Area (m²)
What Do These Terms Really Mean?
Resistivity (ρ) – A Measure of Resistance
Resistivity is a property of materials that quantifies how strongly they resist electric current. Here’s what you need to know:
- Measured in ohm-meters (Ω⋅m).
- Higher resistivity means a material is a better insulator.
Resistance (R) – Opposition to Current
Resistance is a measure of the opposition to current flow in an electrical circuit. Here’s what you need to know:
- Measured in ohms (Ω).
- Depends on the material, length, and cross-sectional area of the conductor.
