Q. In the absence of applied potential, the electric current flowing through a metallic wire is zero because
A) The electrons remain stationary
B) The electrons are drifted in random direction with a speed of the order of $10^{- 2}$ cm$\ s^{- 1}$
C) The electrons move in random direction with a speed of the order close to that of velocity of light
D) Electrons and ions move in opposite direction
Explanation
(c) At room temperature, the free electrons in a conductor move randomly with speed of the order of $10^{5}ms^{- 1}$. Since, the motion of the electrons is random there is no net charge flow in any direction.
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.