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Herbert Schulz wrote:
Vectors behave in certain ways under addition, etc.
That is an important consideration, and a good way to frame
the discussion.
I recognize the existence of both:
-- A vector current J, and
-- A scalar current I.
Arguing about which of these should be called "the" current reminds
me of the holy war between the big-endians and the little-endians.
I don't see how
current can be a vector since it doesn't add like vectors; e.g., two
currents do NOT add like vectors at branch points in circuits.
Really? I would say that they DO behave like vectors; in particular
the physical significance of "I" cannot be established except by reference
to a chosen basis vector.
For details, see
http://www.av8n.com/physics/resistance.htm#sec-diag
As it says there:
]] Let’s be clear:
]]
]] * The vector current J has direct physical significance.
]] * The scalar current I is convenient for calculations.
]] * The physical significance of I cannot be established except by reference
]] to some chosen basis vector.
]] * You are free to choose your own basis vector, but you should be prepared
]] for the possibility that other people will choose differently. This is
]] harmless, so long as everyone clearly communicates what choice they have made.