1. Sep 23, 2012 #1

   Jadaav

   

   Why is an alternating current used for long distance transmission of electrical power ?
   
   What about direct current ?

    

   Jadaav, Sep 23, 2012
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3. Sep 23, 2012 #2

   Emilyjoint

   

   It is because transformers can be used to transform AC voltage to high voltage to reduce power loss in connecting cables. High voltage means less current for the same power and therefore with highg voltage I^2r losses are reduced.
   Transformers can then be used to step down the high voltage to safer values for domestic use.

    

   Emilyjoint, Sep 23, 2012
4. Sep 23, 2012 #3

   mathman

   

   Science Advisor

   Gold Member

   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_power_transmission#High-voltage_direct_current
   
   Above describes the use of direct current in long distance.

    

   mathman, Sep 23, 2012

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