University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 25 - Current, Resistance, and Electromotive Force - Problems - Discussion Questions - Page 840: Q25.4

Answer

The drift speed increases.

Work Step by Step

From equation 25.4, we see that $v_d=\frac{J}{nq}$. The current density J is larger in the smaller-diameter wire, while the electron concentration and charge stay the same. The drift speed increases. The change occurs because of the increase in electric field inside the smaller-diameter wire (equation 25.7).
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