Write differences between resistance and resistivity?

Sl. No.

Differentiating Property

Resistance

Resistivity

1

Definition

Resistance is the physical property of a substance because of which it opposes the flow of current i.e. electrons.

Resistivity is the physical property of a particular substance which is having particular dimensions.

2

Proportionality

Resistance is directly proportional to the length and temperature while it is inversely proportional to the cross-sectional area of the material.

Resistivity is only proportional to the nature and temperature of the particular material.

3

Symbol

R

ρ

4

Formula

R = V/I or,
R = ρ(L/A)

V = Voltage, I = Current, ρ = Resistivity

ρ = (R×A)/L

R = Resistance, L= Length, A = Cross-sectional area

5

SI Units

The SI unit of resistance is Ohms

The SI unit of resistivity is Ohms-meter.

6

Applications

The property of resistance is used in several places like heaters, fuses, sensors, etc.

Electrical resistivity measurement is used as a quality control test for calcareous soil.