National Grid
Physics: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 2.4.4
National Grid
The National Grid is the network of cables and transformers that connect power stations with houses and shops in the United Kingdom.
Power stations
- Power stations create an electric current, which is an energy carrier.
- Large power stations are more efficient than smaller power stations because they can burn lots of fuel at very high temperatures. This creates very hot steam that can turn the turbines.
- Steam turbines are more efficient at higher temperatures.
- Power stations produce electricity at a voltage of 25,000 Volts.
Step-up transformers
- Step-up transformers then increase the potential difference to 400,000 Volts.
- This reduces the current and this reduces how much heat is lost when it’s being transported across the country.
- This increases the efficiency of the National Grid system.
Step-down transformers and our homes
- To get electricity to a safer voltage (230 Volts) in our homes, step-down transformers reduce the voltage to a lower value.
Test yourself on National Grid
Potential difference in the National Grid
Which of these are part of the National Grid?