This calculator calculates the resistivity of a component based on its resistance value, length, and cross-sectional area.

Inputs

 
 

Output

Ω∙m

Overview

Our resistivity calculator will help you calculate the resistivity of a material which is a function of its resistance value, length, and cross-sectional area. 

 

Equation

ρ=RAL

Where: 

ρ

= resistivity of the material in ohm-m (Ω-m)

R

= resistance of the material in ohms (Ω).

L

= length of the material in meters (m).

A

= cross-sectional area of the material in square meters (m2).

The resistivity of a material is the amount of resistance it can offer to a current based on its dimensions. This is actually inherent to a specific material as each type has its own resistivity values. Normally, we calculate the resistance R of the material given its resistivity and dimensions. 

From the formula above, it can be said that resistivity is directly proportional to the cross-sectional area of the material and inversely proportional to its length. This means that a material with a larger cross-section or a shorter length will have a higher resistivity value. Conversely, a material with a smaller cross-section or a longer length will have a smaller resistivity value. The resistance of the material is also a factor and is directly proportional to its resistivity. 

Conductors tend to have low resistivity while insulators have high resistivity.

Conductivity, usually denoted by σ

, is the reciprocal of resistivity, σ=1ρ

Notes

  • The resistivity of graphene, a special carbon material, is 1 x 10-8 Ω-m
  • The resistivity of Teflon, the one found in non-stick frying pans, is 1 x 1025 Ω-m
  • Semiconductors have resistivities between that between of conductors and insulators
  • The resistivity of a material is dependent on temperature. It can be calculated using the formula: 

ρ=ρ0[1+α(TT0)]

Further Reading

Textbook - Specific Resistance 

Worksheet - Specific Resistance of Conductors

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