Question

Electric power is carried by transmission lines to a substation and then distributed at a lower voltage to a transformer near a home. The transformer's output connects to the home's

Answer 1

Electric power is initially transmitted at high voltages to minimize energy losses, then stepped down using transformers at substations to medium voltages, and finally converted to safe residential levels near homes. Alternating current (ac) allows for efficient voltage transformation at various points in the distribution system.

Step-by-step explanation:

Electric power is conveyed to our homes through a series of voltage transformations to ensure efficiency and safety. Initially, electricity is generated at power stations at a high voltage (often greater than 10 kV) to reduce energy losses over long distances. The use of alternating current (ac) allows for these voltages to be stepped up or down by transformers.

At a substation near residential or industrial areas, the high voltage is reduced to medium voltage levels (ranging from 5 to 13 kV) for local power distribution. This is further reduced by a transformer close to homes, typically to 120, 240, or 480 V, which are safer voltages for residential use. Transforming the voltage at different stages in the power distribution system is essential for the efficiency and safety of the power supply.

Key Functions of Transformers in Power Distribution:

• Step up voltage at power generation stations for long-distance transmission.
• Once arriving at a population center, step down the voltage at substations from high to medium voltage.
• Reduce the voltage further at local transformers to safe levels suitable for homes.

Answer 2

The transformer's output connects to the home's Circuit Breaker panel. The two primary wires from the transformer enters the main circuit breaker. The main breaker lets you give power or cut power to the entire panel when necessary. Within this, all of the wires for the different outlets and lights in the house each have a separate circuit breaker or fuse.