Enter the total resistance, length, and cross-sectional area of a component. The calculator will evaluate and display the resistivity.

Resistivity Formula

The following equation is used to calculate the resistivity of an electrical component or wire. 

p = R * A / L
  • Where p is the resistivity
  • R is the resistance
  • A is the cross-sectional area
  • L is the length

To calculate resistivity, multiply the resistance by the cross-sectional area, then divide by the length.

Resistivity Definition

Resistivity is a term used in electronics that describes the rate at which a component or wire resists the flow of electrons or electricity. It’s a resistance per unit of distance. So the longer the wire the lower the resistivity and vice versa.

Resistivity Example

How to calculate resistivity?

  1. First, determine the resistance.

    Measure the total resistance of the component/wire.

  2. Next, determine the cross-sectional area.

    Measure the cross-sectional area of the wire.

  3. Next, determine the length.

    Measure the overall length of the wire.

  4. Finally, calculate the resistivity.

    Calculate the resistivity of the wire using the formula above.

FAQ

What is resistivity?

Resistivity is a measure of the rate at which a wire or electrical component resists the flow of electrons.