Unraveling the Mystery of Electrical Phases

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of electrical phases, specifically single phase and three phase systems. The struggle with understanding arises when thinking about a 220 volt dryer hookup in a house, which involves three legs (two 'hots' and a ground). The two hots are each 110 volts and are out of phase in order to get 220 volts between them. This setup is unique to North America, where most other countries use a single phase or all three phases at 230 volts. The three phase system is more efficient and commonly used for generation, distribution, and large motors. The conversation also clarifies that the voltage between two wires cannot be out of phase, but rather the phases of two signals can be compared. The terminology used
  • #71
I wonder if we considered a three phase system, that we could resolve this. The only reason that the two 'ends' of a WYE (star) system have a PD between them is because there is a phase difference (ref neutral and ref anywhere else, aamof). If they were in phase there would be no PD between them. Likewise, the two ends of the secondary of a 'split phase' are in antiphase. If they were in phase (ref to anywhere) and of equal magnitude, there would be no PD between them.
How can there be anything 'special' about the volts at the two ends of a centre tapped secondary that would make you say the phases (and amplitudes) were the same but have a PD between them? I guess the only thing you could say is that the magnetic flux through the core, for each half of the winding is actually in phase.
 
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  • #72
We went less than two hours yesterday from the time I posted in #65 until post #69 when Zgo said:
... and supernova? What about you?
And here we are nearly a whole day later with no reply from Zgo. I would also like to continue this debate.
 
<h2>1. What are electrical phases?</h2><p>Electrical phases refer to the different states of alternating current (AC) electricity. In a single-phase system, the current flows in one direction, while in a three-phase system, the current flows in three different directions, creating a more efficient and balanced flow of electricity.</p><h2>2. How does electricity change phases?</h2><p>Electricity changes phases through a process called phase shifting. This can occur naturally in the transmission and distribution of electricity, or it can be intentionally manipulated through devices such as transformers or capacitors.</p><h2>3. What is the purpose of having multiple phases in electricity?</h2><p>The use of multiple phases in electricity allows for a more efficient and balanced distribution of power. It also allows for the use of higher voltages, which can reduce power loss during transmission.</p><h2>4. What is the difference between single-phase and three-phase electricity?</h2><p>The main difference between single-phase and three-phase electricity is the number of phases or directions in which the current flows. Single-phase electricity has one phase, while three-phase electricity has three phases. Three-phase electricity is typically used for larger industrial and commercial applications, while single-phase is more commonly used in residential settings.</p><h2>5. How does understanding electrical phases impact daily life?</h2><p>Understanding electrical phases is important for ensuring the safe and efficient distribution of electricity. It also allows for the use of different types of electrical equipment and appliances, as certain devices may require a specific phase to function properly. Additionally, understanding electrical phases can help individuals make informed decisions about their energy usage and potentially save money on their electricity bills.</p>

1. What are electrical phases?

Electrical phases refer to the different states of alternating current (AC) electricity. In a single-phase system, the current flows in one direction, while in a three-phase system, the current flows in three different directions, creating a more efficient and balanced flow of electricity.

2. How does electricity change phases?

Electricity changes phases through a process called phase shifting. This can occur naturally in the transmission and distribution of electricity, or it can be intentionally manipulated through devices such as transformers or capacitors.

3. What is the purpose of having multiple phases in electricity?

The use of multiple phases in electricity allows for a more efficient and balanced distribution of power. It also allows for the use of higher voltages, which can reduce power loss during transmission.

4. What is the difference between single-phase and three-phase electricity?

The main difference between single-phase and three-phase electricity is the number of phases or directions in which the current flows. Single-phase electricity has one phase, while three-phase electricity has three phases. Three-phase electricity is typically used for larger industrial and commercial applications, while single-phase is more commonly used in residential settings.

5. How does understanding electrical phases impact daily life?

Understanding electrical phases is important for ensuring the safe and efficient distribution of electricity. It also allows for the use of different types of electrical equipment and appliances, as certain devices may require a specific phase to function properly. Additionally, understanding electrical phases can help individuals make informed decisions about their energy usage and potentially save money on their electricity bills.

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