High-Voltage Transmission & Transformers
Physics: Edexcel IGCSE, topic 6.4.5
High-Voltage Transmission and Transformers
Electricity is generated at voltages of around 25,000 V. It is transmitted at 400,000 V before a transformer is then used to decrease the voltage to 230 V to be used in plug sockets in homes.
Long distances
- Transformers are used to increase the voltage of electricity, so it can be transmitted long distances through cables.
- A step-up transformer is used to increase the voltage to around 400,000 V to be transmitted long distances.
- Transmitting electricity at high voltages reduces the energy that is lost as heat due to the resistance of the cables.
Test yourself on High-Voltage Transmission & Transformers
Which type of transformer is used to increase voltage for transmission over long distances?
At what voltage is electricity transmitted over long distances?
Suggest a reason why DC (direct current) is not used for the National Grid.