Specific Resistance of Metals
What is Specific Resistance?
The specific electric resistance (K) of a material is
the resistance offered by a wire of the material which is one foot long with a diameter of one MIL.
Specific Resistance Chart
| Material |
Specific Resistance (K) |
| Aluminum |
17.0 |
| Brass |
43.0 |
| Constantan |
295.0 |
| Copper |
10.8 |
| German Silver (18%) |
200.0 |
| Gold |
14.7 |
| Iron (Pure) |
60.0 |
| Magnesium |
276.0 |
| Manganin |
265.0 |
| Monel |
253.0 |
| Nichrome |
600.0 |
| Nickel |
947.0 |
| Silver |
9.7 |
| Tantalum |
93.3 |
| Tin |
69.0 |
| Tungsten |
34.0 |
The resistance of a wire is directly proportional to the specific electrical resistance of the material.
Warning: When using this information to perform electrical work, call a licensed electrician and consult the NEC® for safety. All licensed
electricians have passed examinations covering the National Electric Code®, know state and local building codes, and may carry insurance to cover damages.