What determines the resistance of a conductor?

The resistance of a conductor is determined by several factors, which collectively influence how easily electric current can flow through that material. The correct answer encompasses these factors: cross-sectional area, length, temperature, and material.

The material of the conductor plays a significant role because different materials have different inherent properties that affect their ability to conduct electricity. For example, copper has a lower resistivity compared to rubber, making it a better conductor.

The length of the conductor also impacts resistance; longer conductors typically have more resistance because electrons have to travel a greater distance, encountering more obstacles along the way.

The cross-sectional area is crucial as well; conductors with larger cross-sectional areas generally have lower resistance because they provide more pathways for electrons to flow.

Temperature is another important factor since resistance can change with temperature fluctuations. Most conductors experience increased resistance as temperature rises due to increased vibrational energy of atoms, which can hinder the flow of electrons.

Overall, by integrating these four factors, one can accurately determine the resistance of a conductor in various conditions. This comprehensive viewpoint is essential for understanding and predicting circuit behavior in electronic applications.