Explain the term 'drift velocity' of electrons in a conductor. Hence obtain the expression for the current through a conductor in terms of 'drift velocity'.

Explanation

In a current-carrying conductor, a charged particle is accelerated by an electric field. It also undergoes frequent collisions with the stationary ions of the wire material. These two effects result in a very slow net motion (drift) of moving charged particles in the direction of the electric force. This motion is described by the drift velocity `(V_(d))`. The relationship of drift velocity with current is given by,
`I=n^(c)AV_(d)`
Here, I is the current following through the conductor.
n is the number density of an electron.
A is the area of the conductor. e is the charge of the electron.