Calculating Conductance: A Guide

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<h3>Calculating Conductance: A Guide</h3>

In electronics, conductance is a measure of the current produced through a circuit element for a given applied voltage. Usually denoted by the letter G, conductance is the reciprocal of resistance, R. The unit of conductance is the siemens (S). The conductance of a conductor depends on many factors, including its shape, dimensions, and the material’s conductivity—usually denoted by the Greek letter σ.

Conductance from Resistance

Suppose a particular circuit element has a resistance of 1.25 × 103 ohms. Because conductance is the reciprocal of resistance, we can write:

(G=frac{1}{R})



Therefore:

(G=frac{1}{1.25times 10^3text{ ohms}}=8times10^2text{ siemens})

Conductance when Current and Voltage Are Known

Consider this example: A voltage (V) of 5 volts generates a current (I) of 0.30 amps in a particular length of wire. Ohm’s law tells us that resistance (R) can be easily determined. According to the law:

(V=IR)



So:

(frac{1}{R}=frac{I}{V})

In this case, it’s 0.30 amps ÷ 5 volts = 0.06 Siemens.



Conductance from Conductivity

Suppose you have a wire with a round cross-section that has a radius r and length L. If you know the conductivity (σ) of the wire material, you can find the conductance (G) of the wire. The relationship between them is:

(G=frac{Asigma}{L})

and since cross-sectional area is πr2, this becomes:

(G=frac{pi r^2sigma}{L})

Example:

Find the conductance of a round piece of iron with a cross-sectional radius of 0.001 meters and length of 0.1 meters.

Iron has a conductivity of 1.03 × 107 siemens/m, and the cross-sectional area of the wire is 3.14 X 10-6 m. The conductance of the wire is then 324 siemens.

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.