A transport theory contribution to the understanding of conductivity in metals

In the transport of conduction electrons different types of scattering inte raction can be recognized, with cross-sections that behave differently and give rise to collision frequencies that, in turn, depend on electron moment um with different laws. A few of such diverse collision frequencies are con sidered, and the ensuing electron distribution functions derived in the fra mework of the so-called quasi-classical theory with BGK collision term. Fro m the distribution functions conductivities are calculated and the validity of Ohm's law and Matjiessen's rule is investigated in the light of the res ults obtained. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.