What is the effect on electrical resistance and electrical conductivity of a conductor material when temperature is increased?
When the temperature of a conductor material is increased, its electrical resistance increases while its electrical conductivity decreases. This is because the increased thermal energy causes more frequent collisions between the charge carriers and the atoms in the material, impeding the flow of electric current.
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The correct answer is that electrical resistance increases while electrical conductivity decreases (option A). When the temperature of a conductor is increased, the atoms in the material vibrate more vigorously due to the added thermal energy. This increased vibration causes more frequent collisions between the free electrons (charge carriers) and the atoms, which impedes the flow of electric current and increases the electrical resistance. As a result, the material’s ability to conduct electricity, or electrical conductivity, decreases. This behavior is typical in metallic conductors, where the movement of free electrons is the primary mechanism for conducting electricity. The relationship between temperature and electrical properties is crucial for designing and operating electronic devices, as excessive heat can lead to increased resistance, reduced efficiency, and potential overheating. Understanding this effect helps in managing thermal conditions in electronic circuits and improving the performance and reliability of electrical systems.