Final answer:
In high-voltage power transmission, keeping the current low minimizes power losses, which are proportional to the current squared, hence the use of high voltage to transmit power efficiently.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the transmission of electrical power, the formula for power transmitted (Ptransmitted) is given by Ptransmitted = Itransmitted² Rwire, where Itransmitted is the current transmitted and Rwire is the resistance of the transmission wire. To reduce power loss (Plost) in transmission, which is calculated as Plost = Itransmitted² Rwire, it is essential to minimize the transmitted current. This is because power lost is proportional to the current squared in the transmission wire.
To efficiently transmit a high amount of power (Ptransmitted) without significant losses, a high voltage is used in power lines because power loss can be kept at a minimum by reducing Itransmitted. This is the principle behind high voltage transmission in power lines, such as those that carry voltage from the electrical power plant for transmission along power lines. The voltage must therefore be high to ensure the current transmitted is as low as possible, reducing the power lost. This concept is widely applied in electrical engineering and is crucial for the effective distribution of power from generation sources to homes and businesses.