Chapter 22, Problem 109A

To determine

To identify: the relationship between thermal expansion and high voltage transmission lines.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The electric power is the ability to do work in driving the current through component when a potential difference is applied. In other words, electric power is the current time the potential difference between the terminals of the component.

The equation for the electric power is given by the following formula,

  $P=I\Delta V$  ......(1)

Here, $I$ and $\Delta V$ are the current flowing through the component and the applied potential difference.

The amount of energy lost as we heat when a high current pass through the transmission lines depends on how much would the wire sags. Higher the current flows; the greater the heat lost and larger would be the sagging. Thus, it is advisable to increase the voltage and decrease the high current flow in transmission lines to reduce loss into heat. The sag of the wire causes damage when they are in contact with any object like trees, large buildings and so on.

Conclusion:

Hence, this is advised to increase the voltage and reduce the high current flow through the transmission lines to minimize heat loss.