Chapter 7: Problem 32

If the electric utility company where you live suddenly changed the frequency of the \(\mathrm{AC}\) to \(20 \mathrm{~Hz}\), what problems might this cause?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Answer: If the frequency of the AC were changed to 20Hz, various potential issues may arise, including changes in the operation of motors, transformers, and lighting systems. This could lead to problems such as slower motor speeds, overheating and power losses in transformers, reduced efficiency and flickering in lighting systems, and synchronization problems in electronic devices. In summary, there would be a significant disruption in daily life and the operation of many electric appliances and systems.

Step by step solution

Changes in electrical systems

When the frequency of AC changes, it can lead to various potential issues in the operation of electrical devices, including motors, transformers, and lighting systems.

Motors

Motors running on frequency-specific designs will operate at different speeds when the frequency changes. This will affect equipment such as fans, pumps, and compressors; lowering the frequency to 20Hz will generally result in a slower motor speed, which could lead to inefficient operation or insufficient performance to meet the desired task.

Transformers

Transformers are designed to efficiently operate at a given frequency. A change of frequency might lead to overheating and high power losses, which can reduce the overall lifespan of the transformer. Additionally, the voltage regulation will be affected, resulting in voltage fluctuations across the electrical grid.

Lighting systems

Some light sources such as fluorescent lamps rely on magnetic ballasts which are specifically designed to operate at a certain frequency. A change in frequency might lead to the reduction in efficiency of these light sources, flickering or even premature failure.

Synchronization

Many household electronic devices require synchronization between AC frequency and internal clock frequency. A change in the AC frequency can result in the malfunctioning of timekeeping devices like clocks, or performance issues in appliances with electronic timing controls.

Conclusion

In summary, if the electric utility company changed the frequency of the AC to 20Hz, various appliances and electrical systems, including motors, transformers, and lighting systems, might face performance and efficiency issues, as well as synchronization problems. This could lead to a significant disruption in daily life and the operation of many electric appliances and systems.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

Recommended explanations on Physics Textbooks

View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

If the electric utility company where you live suddenly changed the frequency of the \(\mathrm{AC}\) to \(20 \mathrm{~Hz}\), what problems might this cause?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Changes in electrical systems

Motors

Transformers

Lighting systems

Synchronization

Conclusion

One App. One Place for Learning.

Most popular questions from this chapter

Recommended explanations on Physics Textbooks

Magnetism and Electromagnetic Induction

Wave Optics

Fundamentals of Physics

Measurements

Force

Modern Physics

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.