P5.2 Cables and plugs Flashcards Preview

GSCE Physics AQA Paper 1 > P5.2 Cables and plugs > Flashcards

Flashcards in P5.2 Cables and plugs Deck (12)
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1
Q

What does the earth wire do?

A

Stops the metal case becoming live if the live wire breaks and touches the case

2
Q

What is the p.d of an earth wire?

A

0V and only carries current if there is a fault

3
Q

What is the purpose of the longest pin?

A

Designed to make contact with the earth wire of a wall socket circuit - so when you plug an appliance with a metal case into a wall socket - the case is automatically earthed

4
Q

Why are the pins made up of brass?

A

Brass is a good conductor and does not rust

5
Q

What is the purpose of the fuse?

A

When current is too high the current passes through the wire in the fuse - it melts and cuts the live wire off

6
Q

What is the colour of the live wire?

A

Brown - has a voltage of 230 V

7
Q

What is the colour of the neutral wire?

A

Blue - and completes the circuit

8
Q

What is the colour of the earth wire?

A

Green and yellow

9
Q

Why is copper used for the wire?

A

Because it is a good electrical insulator and bends easily

10
Q

What is a short circuit?

A

When the live wire inside the appliance touches a neutral wire - a very big current passes between the 2 wires

11
Q

What happens when someone touches a live wire?

A

People’s bodies are at 0v - if someone touches it - a big potential difference will act across their body - causing a current to flow through them - they will suffer an electric shock

12
Q

Why do appliances with a metal case must have three core cables?

A

So metal case is earthed