Do electrons travel on the surface of a conductor or within the conductor?

Question

I have not been able to substantiate the 'surface' theory but have seen references in some articles/periodicals that suggest this occurs. Yet, no hard evidence. Is this at all possible (surface vs core electron flow) or am I reading too hard between the lines? I am aware of electron drift and the apparent slow motion of electrons in an active circuit. I think that since atoms are present in the conductor as a whole molecules, electrons should flow wherever an atom exists in the direction of least potential. Thanks for assisting.

Answer 1

D.C. and low frequency A.C. use the whole of the conductor. At higher frequencies electron conduction only occurs in the surface layer of the conductor (the surface effect). This means that high frequency electricity is safer as if you touch it is travels through the outer layers of the body - avoiding the heart. Though from experience it can produce a nasty burn at the entry and exit points.

Answer 2

It takes time for current to diffuse into a conductor. With a short pulse or high frequency, the current may only reside near the surface as a result.

Answer 3

Since the "surface theory" became known, sometime perhaps in the 1960s, a lot of electrical contacts have been gold plated.
Since this is expensive, there must be some reasoning behind it.

Answer 4

when electricity passes through a conductor,the electrons travel on the surface,thats y we get a shock when we touch it, but when there is no external current they are inside,so we never get a shock when we touch it.

Answer 5

Electrons surround atoms; which make up all things. So both.

Answer 6

Y

Answer 7

both.