How does high internal resistance make high voltage power supplies safe?

In summary, when the internal resistance of a power supply is high compared to the external resistance, the terminal potential difference (Vterminal) will be low due to the relationship Vterminal = EMF - Vinternal. This low Vterminal makes the power supply safe for use in a laboratory because it reduces the risk of electric shock. This is because a high internal resistance results in a low current, which minimizes the flow of electricity and decreases the potential for harm. Therefore, having a high voltage power supply with a high internal resistance is a safety feature that allows for the safe use of high voltage supplies in a laboratory setting.
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Homework Statement


When the internal resistance is large in comparison to the external resistance, the terminal potential difference falls to a small value. This is used to make high voltage supplies safe for use in a laboratory. Explain how this makes the supply safe.

Homework Equations


Vterminal = EMF - Vinternal

The Attempt at a Solution


If the internal resistance is high, since Vinternal = I r, where r is the internal resistance, the Vinternal will be high. This means the Vterminal will be low. And because of the internal resistance, the current will also be low. So then what is the point of having a high voltage power supply?
 
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I have attached what I think is the solution. Please could you look at it and see if it makes sense and is right. Thanks
 

Attachments

  • Answer for question 1.pdf
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1. What is a high voltage power supply?

A high voltage power supply is an electrical device that converts low voltage electricity into high voltage electricity. It is used to power devices and systems that require high voltage for their operation, such as X-ray machines, particle accelerators, and electronic equipment.

2. How does a high voltage power supply work?

A high voltage power supply works by using a transformer to increase the voltage of the electricity. The electricity is then rectified to convert it from AC to DC, and then it is regulated to maintain a steady high voltage output. Some high voltage power supplies also include additional features such as current limiting, overvoltage protection, and voltage control.

3. What are the different types of high voltage power supplies?

There are several types of high voltage power supplies, including linear power supplies, switch-mode power supplies, and high frequency power supplies. Linear power supplies use a transformer and linear regulator to increase the voltage, while switch-mode power supplies use high-frequency switching to increase the voltage. High frequency power supplies use high-frequency AC signals to create high voltages.

4. What are the safety precautions when working with high voltage power supplies?

Working with high voltage power supplies can be dangerous, so it is important to take proper safety precautions. Some of these include wearing protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses, grounding the power supply and the equipment being powered, and using insulated tools. It is also important to follow proper procedures for turning the power supply on and off.

5. What are some common applications of high voltage power supplies?

High voltage power supplies are used in a variety of applications, including medical equipment, scientific research, industrial processes, and telecommunications. They are used to power devices and systems that require high voltage for their operation, such as X-ray machines, laser systems, high voltage testing equipment, and high voltage power supplies are used in a variety of applications, including medical equipment, scientific research, industrial processes, and telecommunications. They are used to power devices and systems that require high voltage for their operation, such as X-ray machines, laser systems, high voltage testing equipment, and particle accelerators.

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