Resistivity Law Calculator

Enter any three of resistivity ρ, length L, area A and resistance R (use consistent units) to calculate the fourth.

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Formula Reference
Resistivity Law Formula: \(R = \rho \frac{L}{A}\)

Resistivity Law and Resistance

Resistivity law relates resistance to material resistivity, length and cross-sectional area: R = ρL/A.

Resistivity ρ depends on the material, longer conductors have higher resistance, and larger area reduces resistance.

Typical units are ρ(Ω·m), L(m), A(m²), and R(Ω). Units must be consistent.

Temperature changes resistivity; metals usually increase resistance as temperature rises.

The formula assumes a uniform cross-section and homogeneous material for estimation.

Use this calculator for fast learning checks and engineering estimates.

Quiz: Resistivity Law

1. What is the resistivity law formula?

R = ρL/A.

2. What is the unit of resistivity?

Ohm·meter (Ω·m).

3. What happens to resistance when length increases?

Resistance increases.

4. What happens to resistance when area increases?

Resistance decreases.

5. What is the unit of resistance?

Ohm (Ω).

6. How do you compute resistance from ρ, L, and A?

R = ρL/A.

7. How do you compute resistivity from R, L, and A?

ρ = R A / L.

8. How do you compute area from R, ρ, and L?

A = ρL / R.

9. Why must units be consistent?

Inconsistent units lead to incorrect results.

10. Does temperature affect resistivity?

Yes, metals usually increase resistivity with temperature.

Resistivity Law Tool

Quick conversion between resistivity, length, cross-sectional area and resistance.

Scan the QR code to use on mobile.