TEMPERATURE COEFFICIENT OF RESISTIVITY Meaning and
Definition
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The temperature coefficient of resistivity is a physical property that describes the change in resistance of a material as its temperature changes. It is denoted by the symbol α and is usually expressed in units of ohm per ohm per degree Celsius (Ω/Ω/°C) or per kelvin (Ω/Ω/K).
The temperature coefficient of resistivity quantifies how the resistivity of a substance changes with variations in temperature. It is a fundamental characteristic of most conductive materials and helps determine their suitability for different applications.
In practice, the temperature coefficient of resistivity is calculated as the ratio of the change in resistivity to the change in temperature over a given temperature range. A positive temperature coefficient indicates that the material becomes more resistant as its temperature increases, whereas a negative coefficient signifies that the material becomes less resistant as its temperature increases.
Understanding the temperature coefficient of resistivity is crucial in designing electronic devices, such as thermistors and temperature sensors, where precise resistance measurements are required. It allows engineers to account for the impact of temperature changes on electrical circuits and ensures accurate performance under various operating conditions.
Moreover, the temperature coefficient of resistivity allows for the classification of materials into two major categories: conductors and insulators. Conductors typically have a positive temperature coefficient, while insulators typically have a negative coefficient. This distinction is essential in many practical applications, including electrical wiring, circuitry design, and material selection for specific temperature-dependent operations.
