AdvancedA-001-002-003

Where does almost all RF current flow in a conductor?

A
Answer
Advanced theory and components
Type
A
Along the surface of the conductor
B
In a magnetic field around the conductor
C
In a magnetic field in the centre of the conductor
D
In the centre of the conductor

Answer Notes

When dealing with alternating current (AC) at radio frequencies (RF), almost all the current flows along the surface of the conductor rather than uniformly through its entire cross-section. This is due to the skin effect, which makes the center of the conductor practically unused for carrying high-frequency electrical current. Distractors suggesting the current flows in the center or inside the magnetic field itself are incorrect. While a magnetic field surrounds the conductor, the electrons themselves physically move within the conductive material, specifically constrained to its outer boundary.
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What effect causes most of an RF current to flow along the surface of a conductor?
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Why does most of an RF current flow within a very thin layer under the conductor's surface?