Explain why a transformer is used in electrical power lines.

Power stations use step-down transformers to decrease the voltage of the electrical output. The power lines have a constant resistance (say, R Ohms) which means there is a power loss across the lines given by P = IV. By using Ohm's law (V = IR), we can obtain the formula P = V^2 / R which shows that the power loss goes as the square of the voltage. By using a step down transformer, we can minimize the power loss that occurs during transmission.

ZM

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe simple harmonic motion (SHM). Sketch a displacement-time graph for a particle undergoing SHM and the corresponding velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs. Use these graphs to describe the relationship between accleration and displacment.


Initially, trucks A and B are travelling in opposite directions. A has mass 1000 kg and is travelling at speed 7ms^-1. B has mass 4000kg and is travelling at speed 2ms^-1. What is their speed and direction after collision if they move together?


Can you talk me through how to solve problems on projectiles? I always get confused


What is the equivalence principle of General Relativity and what does it mean?