Question

C(h). How does electric current flow in a metal?

Answer 1

Concept used: Electric potential

Step 1: Movement of free electrons

1. Metal is made up of a large number of atoms. The outermost electrons of a metal atom are not bound to the atom and are free to move inside the metal. Therefore, these electrons are known as free electrons.
2. Different free electrons move at different speeds in different directions. As a result, there is no net movement of electrons.
3. Hence, no electric current in any particular direction.

Step 2: Flow of electric current through a metal

1. However, when the two ends of a metallic conductor are connected to a battery, then a potential difference develops between the two ends of the metallic conductor.
2. As a result, electrons start moving from the low potential end to the high potential end and there is a net flow of electrons in one direction.
3. Thus, the electric current starts flowing through the high potential end to the low potential end of the metallic conductor.