Q. A potential difference is applied across the ends of a metallic wire. If the potential difference is doubled, the drift velocity will

A) Be doubled
B) Be halved
C) Be quadrupled
D) Remain unchanged
Explanation

(a) Drift velocity is defined as the average velocity with which free electrons get defined towards the positive end of the conductor under the influence of an external electric field.
Drift velocity is given by
$v_{d} = \frac{eE\tau}{m}$
$But\ \ \ \ \ E = \frac{V}{l}$
(if $l$ is length of the conductor and V is constant potential difference applied across the ends of the conductor)
$\therefore v_{d} = \frac{eV\tau}{ml} \Longrightarrow v_{d} \propto V$
So, when the potential difference is doubled the drift velocity will be doubled.

Dr. Abubacker
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker

Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist

Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.