P1.4 (Waves) (The national grid and transformers) Flashcards
1
Q
What does the National Grid do?
A
Distributes electricity from power stations to the consumers
2
Q
What is a transformer?
A
A device that alters the voltage of an alternating current
3
Q
Which transformer increases the voltage?
A
A step-up transformer
4
Q
Which transformer decreases voltage?
A
A step-down transformer
5
Q
Why does voltage need to be increased?
A
To lower the current, and so as the electricity travels, it loses less heat.
The voltage is increased to : 400,000v, 275,000v, 132,000v
6
Q
Why does voltage need to be decreased?
A
To ensure the voltage is at a safe level for homes. It is reduced to 230v
7
Q
What voltage is electricity produced at?
A
25,000v
8
Q
How does electricity get to the homes?
A
- power station
- step-up transformers
- high voltage transmission lines
- step-down transformers
- consumer
