What's the difference between ohmic and non-ohmic conductors?

Ohmic conductors are materials that have a linear relationship between the current passing through them and the voltage applied across them. This means that the resistance of the material remains constant regardless of the voltage or current. Examples of ohmic conductors include most metals.

Non-ohmic conductors, on the other hand, do not have a linear relationship between current and voltage. The resistance of non-ohmic conductors changes with the voltage or current passing through them. Examples of non-ohmic conductors include semiconductors and diodes.

In summary, the main difference between ohmic and non-ohmic conductors is the linearity of their resistance with respect to current and voltage.

Ohmic Conductors:

- Follow Ohm's Law, which states that the current flowing through the conductor is directly proportional to the voltage applied across it.
- Have a constant resistance, meaning the ratio of voltage to current remains the same regardless of the current or voltage applied.
- Examples: metals, electrolytes, semiconductors at low voltages.

Non-Ohmic Conductors:

- Do not follow Ohm's Law.
- Their resistance changes with the applied voltage or current.
- Exhibit non-linear behavior, meaning the current-voltage relationship is not a straight line.
- Examples: diodes, transistors, thyristors, insulators at high voltages.

Key Differences:

| Feature | Ohmic Conductors | Non-Ohmic Conductors |
|---|---|---|
| Ohm's Law | Yes | No |
| Resistance | Constant | Variable |
| Current-voltage relationship | Linear | Non-linear |
| Examples | Metals, electrolytes | Diodes, transistors, insulators |

Consequences of Non-Ohmic Behavior:

- Non-Ohmic conductors can lead to nonlinear circuits and complex behavior.
- They can generate distortions in signals and power systems.
- They can limit the current flow or voltage drop in certain applications.