Which equation represents power losses in a transmission line?

Study for the NERC Transmission Operations (TOP) Exam with our multiple choice questions and comprehensive explanations. Prepare effectively and boost your confidence for test day!

The equation representing power losses in a transmission line is expressed as ( I^2 R ). This formula arises from the principles of electrical power and resistance within the context of Ohm's law and power calculations.

In a transmission line, power losses occur primarily due to the resistance of the conductors. When an electrical current ( I ) flows through a conductor with resistance ( R ), some of the electrical energy is converted into heat due to this resistance, leading to power loss. The relationship can be understood as follows:

  • The power loss (in watts) is equal to the current squared (since power is proportional to the square of the current) multiplied by the resistance. This squared term indicates that even a small increase in current can lead to a significantly higher amount of power loss, further emphasizing the importance of keeping current as low as feasible for efficient transmission.

Therefore, the ( I^2 R ) expression is fundamental in evaluating losses in electrical systems, guiding engineers in designing more efficient transmission networks and minimizing heat-related issues.

This equation is a standard within electrical engineering and easily derives from the basic power formula ( P = IV ) and Ohm's law ( V = IR ). Substituting ( V ) from Ohm

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