1. What is the Copper Resistance vs Temperature Equation?

The copper resistance vs temperature equation estimates how the electrical resistance of copper changes with temperature. It's based on the linear approximation of the temperature coefficient of resistance for copper.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• \( R \) — Resistance at temperature T (Ω)
• \( R_0 \) — Reference resistance at T₀ (Ω)
• \( \alpha \) — Temperature coefficient of resistance (/°C)
• \( T \) — Current temperature (°C)
• \( T_0 \) — Reference temperature (°C)

Explanation: The equation accounts for the linear relationship between copper's resistance and temperature, with α representing how much the resistance changes per degree Celsius.

3. Importance of Resistance Calculation

Details: Accurate resistance estimation is crucial for electrical engineering applications, temperature sensing with RTDs, and designing circuits that operate across temperature ranges.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter reference resistance in ohms, temperature coefficient (0.00393/°C for copper), current temperature, and reference temperature (typically 20°C). All values must be valid.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical α value for copper?
A: Pure copper has a temperature coefficient of approximately 0.00393/°C at 20°C.

Q2: How accurate is this linear approximation?
A: It's reasonably accurate for small temperature ranges (typically ±50°C from reference). For wider ranges, higher-order terms may be needed.

Q3: Does this apply to other metals?
A: Yes, but each metal has its own temperature coefficient. For example, aluminum has α ≈ 0.00429/°C.

Q4: What affects the temperature coefficient?
A: Purity, alloy composition, and manufacturing process can all affect the actual temperature coefficient.

Q5: When is this equation not valid?
A: At cryogenic temperatures or near copper's melting point, the relationship becomes non-linear.