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Multiple Choice Questions - Test your understanding with these MCQs. Click "Show Answer" to reveal the correct answer.

Question 1What is the primary difference between the current from a cell/battery and the current from the mains?

Correct Answer: Mains is Alternating Current (A.C.) while cell is Direct Current (D.C.)

Question 2What is the frequency of the Alternating Current (A.C.) generally used in household circuits?

Correct Answer: 50 Hz

Question 3In an A.C. supply of 50 Hz, how many times does the polarity change in one second?

Correct Answer: 100 times

Question 4Potential difference is defined as the work done in moving a unit charge from:

Correct Answer: One electrode to another

Question 5The S.I. unit of potential difference is named after which scientist?

Correct Answer: Alessandro Volta

Question 6Which formula represents the electrical energy (W) supplied by a source?

Correct Answer: W = VIt

Question 7Power (P) supplied by a source is calculated as:

Correct Answer: P = W / t

Question 8One watt is equivalent to:

Correct Answer: 1 Volt × 1 Ampere

Question 9At what voltage is electric power usually generated at the power generating station?

Correct Answer: 11 kV

Question 10Why is the voltage raised from 11 kV to 132 kV at the generating station before transmission?

Correct Answer: To reduce loss of energy due to heating of line wires

Question 11At the grid substation, the voltage is reduced from 132 kV to:

Correct Answer: 33 kV

Question 12At the city substation, the voltage is finally reduced to _____ before supply to consumers.

Correct Answer: 220 V

Question 13Which three wires are found in the cable supplying power to a house?

Correct Answer: Phase, Neutral, Earth

Question 14What is the potential of the neutral wire at the local substation?

Correct Answer: 0 V

Question 15Which wire carries current from the source to the distribution board?

Correct Answer: Live wire

Question 16Which device is used to raise or lower A.C. voltage?

Correct Answer: Transformer

Question 17Why is D.C. power not used in household circuits?

Correct Answer: Its voltage cannot be increased or decreased by a transformer

Question 18What is the standard color of the insulation for the live wire?

Correct Answer: Red or Brown

Question 19What is the standard color of the insulation for the neutral wire?

Correct Answer: Black or Light Blue

Question 20What is the standard color of the insulation for the earth wire?

Correct Answer: Green or Yellow

Question 21What is the function of the earth wire?

Correct Answer: To provide connection to the earth for safety

Question 22The fuse connected at the pole or just before the meter is called the:

Correct Answer: Company fuse

Question 23What is the typical rating of the company fuse?

Correct Answer: 50 A

Question 24The main switch in a distribution board is connected to:

Correct Answer: Both the live and neutral wires

Question 25The main fuse in the house circuit is connected to:

Correct Answer: The live wire only

Question 26What is the commercial unit of electrical energy?

Correct Answer: Kilowatt hour (kWh)

Question 27One kilowatt hour (kWh) is equal to how many Joules?

Correct Answer: 3.6 × 10^6 J

Question 28The electric meter measures electrical energy in:

Correct Answer: kWh

Question 29If the initial meter reading is 49180 and final reading is 50625, how many units of electricity were consumed?

Correct Answer: 1445 units

Question 30An electric fuse is used to:

Correct Answer: Limit the current in a circuit

Question 31Fuse wire is made of an alloy of:

Correct Answer: Lead and Tin

Question 32What is the approximate melting point of a fuse wire?

Correct Answer: 200°C

Question 33Why should ordinary copper wire not be used as a fuse wire?

Correct Answer: It has a very high melting point

Question 34How does the thickness of a fuse wire relate to its current rating?

Correct Answer: Higher rating, thicker wire

Question 35Does the heating of the fuse wire depend on its length?

Correct Answer: No, it does not depend on its length

Question 36What does MCB stand for?

Correct Answer: Miniature Circuit Breaker

Question 37In how much time does an MCB switch off the circuit in case of a short circuit?

Correct Answer: Nearly 25 milliseconds

Question 38What happens when the live wire comes in direct contact with the neutral wire due to broken insulation?

Correct Answer: Short circuit

Question 39Fuse wire is always connected in _____ with the live wire.

Correct Answer: Series

Question 40Why does a fuse wire melt before the connecting copper wires?

Correct Answer: It has higher resistance

Question 41What is the advantage of an MCB over a fuse?

Correct Answer: It can be reset (raised up) after the fault is rectified

Question 42In a household circuit, how are electrical appliances connected?

Correct Answer: In parallel

Question 43In a series connection, if one appliance fails:

Correct Answer: All other appliances stop working

Question 44In a parallel connection, if one bulb fuses:

Correct Answer: Other bulbs continue to glow

Question 45In a household parallel circuit, all appliances work at:

Correct Answer: The same voltage

Question 46Why is the metallic outer body of appliances like refrigerators connected to the earth wire?

Correct Answer: To protect the user from fatal electric shock

Question 47Overloading of an electric circuit is a condition when:

Correct Answer: The circuit draws more current than it is designed for

Question 48If a bulb is rated 100 W - 220 V, what does 100 W represent?

Correct Answer: The power consumed

Question 49What is the formula to calculate the safe limit of current (I) for an appliance?

Correct Answer: I = P / V

Question 50Calculate the safe current for a bulb rated 100 W, 220 V.

Correct Answer: 0.45 A
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True or False Questions - Determine whether each statement is true or false. Click "Show Answer" to reveal the correct answer.

Statement 1A cell or battery provides Alternating Current (A.C.).

Correct Answer: False

Statement 2The current provided by the mains is Direct Current (D.C.).

Correct Answer: False

Statement 3Direct Current (D.C.) remains constant with time.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 4Alternating Current (A.C.) changes its magnitude and polarity with time.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 5The frequency of A.C. used in households is typically 60 Hz.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 6In a 50 Hz A.C. supply, the polarity changes 100 times in one second.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 7Potential difference is defined as the work done in moving a unit charge from one electrode to another.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 8The unit of potential difference is the Ampere.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 9Current is defined as the rate of flow of charges.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 10The unit of current is the Volt.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 11Electric power is the product of potential difference and current (P = VI).

Correct Answer: True

Statement 121 Watt is equal to 1 Volt multiplied by 1 Ampere.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 13Electric power is generated at the power station at 220 V.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 14Voltage is raised to 132 kV for transmission to reduce energy loss due to heating.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 15The voltage supplied to a house from the city substation is 220 V.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 16The cable supplying power to a house consists of only two wires: live and neutral.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 17The neutral wire is maintained at a potential of 220 V.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 18The live wire carries current from the source to the appliance.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 19The earth wire is used to provide a return path for the current.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 20The neutral and earth wires are at the same potential (0 V) at the local substation.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 21A transformer can increase or decrease D.C. voltage.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 22The live wire is usually insulated with red or brown color.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 23The neutral wire is insulated with green or yellow color.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 24The earth wire is insulated with green or yellow color.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 25A company fuse (pole fuse) is connected in the neutral wire.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 26The company fuse has a high rating, such as 50 A.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 27The kWh meter measures the power of appliances.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 28The main fuse in a house circuit is connected to the live wire.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 29The main switch disconnects only the live wire.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 30The commercial unit of electrical energy is the Kilowatt-hour (kWh).

Correct Answer: True

Statement 311 kWh is equal to 3.6 x 10^5 Joules.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 32An electric meter is also known as a kWh meter.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 33An electric fuse limits the voltage in a circuit.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 34A fuse wire is made of an alloy of lead and tin.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 35A fuse wire should have a high melting point.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 36A 15 A fuse wire is thinner than a 5 A fuse wire.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 37Heating of the fuse wire depends on its length.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 38An ordinary copper wire can be used as a fuse wire.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 39A Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) switches off the circuit in case of a short circuit.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 40A short circuit occurs when the live wire touches the neutral wire.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 41When a fuse melts, it breaks the continuity of the neutral wire.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 42Household electrical appliances are connected in series.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 43In a parallel connection, if one appliance fails, others continue to work.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 44Appliances in a household circuit work at different voltages.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 45In a series connection, if one bulb fuses, the other bulbs stop glowing.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 46The metallic body of an appliance is connected to the live wire.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 47Earthing protects the user from electric shock.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 48Overloading occurs when a circuit draws less current than it is designed for.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 49Power rating of an appliance includes its power and voltage.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 50The safe limit of current is calculated as I = P / V.

Correct Answer: True
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Fill in the Blanks - Complete the sentences by filling in the missing words. Click "Show Answer" to check your response.

Question 1The electricity produced by charges in motion is called ______ electricity.

Correct Answer: current

Question 2The electricity where charges remain at rest is known as ______ electricity.

Correct Answer: static

Question 3A cell or battery provides ______ current which remains constant with time.

Correct Answer: direct

Question 4The mains supply and electric generators provide ______ current.

Correct Answer: alternating

Question 5The frequency of alternating current (A.C.) generally used is ______ Hz.

Correct Answer: 50

Question 6In a 50 Hz A.C. supply, the polarity changes ______ times in each second.

Correct Answer: 100

Question 7Potential difference is defined as the ______ done in moving a unit charge from one electrode to another.

Correct Answer: work

Question 8The unit of potential difference is the ______.

Correct Answer: volt

Question 9Current is defined as the rate of flow of ______ in a unit time.

Correct Answer: charges

Question 10The unit of current is the ______.

Correct Answer: ampere

Question 11Electrical power is calculated as the product of potential difference and ______.

Correct Answer: current

Question 121 Watt is equal to 1 Volt multiplied by 1 ______.

Correct Answer: Ampere

Question 13Electric power is usually generated at the generating station at ______ kV.

Correct Answer: 11

Question 14Voltage is raised to ______ kV for transmission to reduce energy loss.

Correct Answer: 132

Question 15At the city substation, the voltage is reduced to ______ V for consumer supply.

Correct Answer: 220

Question 16The cable supplying power to a house consists of three wires: live, neutral, and ______.

Correct Answer: earth

Question 17The neutral and earth wires are connected together at the local substation so they are at ______ potential.

Correct Answer: zero

Question 18The live wire is also called the ______ wire.

Correct Answer: phase

Question 19The live wire carries current from the source to the distribution board at ______ volts.

Correct Answer: 220

Question 20A.C. voltage is raised up or lowered down using a ______.

Correct Answer: transformer

Question 21______ voltage can neither be increased nor decreased by a transformer.

Correct Answer: D.C.

Question 22The colour of the insulation on the live wire is red or ______.

Correct Answer: brown

Question 23The colour of the insulation on the neutral wire is black or ______.

Correct Answer: light blue

Question 24The earth wire has insulation of green or ______ colour.

Correct Answer: yellow

Question 25The neutral wire provides the ______ path for the current.

Correct Answer: return

Question 26To connect the cable from the pole to the meter, a fuse of high rating called the ______ fuse is used.

Correct Answer: company

Question 27The main fuse is connected to the ______ wire.

Correct Answer: live

Question 28The main switch is connected to both the live and ______ wires.

Correct Answer: neutral

Question 29The commercial unit of electrical energy is the ______.

Correct Answer: kilowatt hour

Question 30The unit kWh is also known as the ______ unit.

Correct Answer: Board of Trade

Question 311 kilowatt hour is the energy consumed when an appliance of 1 kW is used for ______ hour(s).

Correct Answer: 1

Question 321 kWh is equal to ______ Joules.

Correct Answer: 3,600,000

Question 33The electric meter is also called the ______ meter.

Correct Answer: kWh

Question 34The rotating part of the kWh meter is called the ______.

Correct Answer: armature

Question 35An electric ______ is a safety device used to limit current in a circuit.

Correct Answer: fuse

Question 36A fuse safeguards the circuit against voltage fluctuations or ______.

Correct Answer: short circuiting

Question 37The fuse wire is made of an alloy of lead and ______.

Correct Answer: tin

Question 38The material of a fuse wire must have a ______ melting point.

Correct Answer: low

Question 39A fuse with a higher current rating uses a ______ wire.

Correct Answer: thicker

Question 40An ordinary copper wire must not be used as a fuse because its ______ is too high.

Correct Answer: melting point

Question 41A short circuit occurs when the live wire comes in contact with the ______ wire.

Correct Answer: neutral

Question 42In modern households, a ______ is used instead of a fuse as an automatic switch.

Correct Answer: Miniature Circuit Breaker

Question 43The MCB switches off the circuit in nearly ______ milliseconds during a short circuit.

Correct Answer: 25

Question 44The fuse wire is always connected in ______ with the live wire.

Correct Answer: series

Question 45When a fuse wire melts, a ______ is produced in the live wire, breaking the circuit.

Correct Answer: gap

Question 46In a household circuit, all appliances are connected in ______.

Correct Answer: parallel

Question 47In a parallel connection, each appliance works at the ______ voltage.

Correct Answer: same

Question 48In a ______ connection, if one bulb fuses, the others also stop glowing.

Correct Answer: series

Question 49In a parallel circuit, if one appliance fails, the others continue to work ______.

Correct Answer: independently

Question 50The metallic outer body of an appliance is connected to the ______ wire.

Correct Answer: earth
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Short Answer Questions - Practice concise answers to these questions. Click "Show Answer" to reveal the response.
Question 1

What type of current is provided by a cell or battery?

Answer:
Direct Current (D.C.)
Question 2

What type of current changes its magnitude and polarity with time?

Answer:
Alternating Current (A.C.)
Question 3

What is the frequency of A.C. generally used in households?

Answer:
50 Hz
Question 4

How many times does the polarity change in one second for a 50 Hz A.C.?

Answer:
100 times
Question 5

What is the unit of potential difference?

Answer:
Volt
Question 6

Which scientist is the unit 'volt' named after?

Answer:
Alessandro Volta
Question 7

What is the unit of electric current?

Answer:
Ampere
Question 8

What physical quantity is defined as the rate of flow of charges?

Answer:
Current
Question 9

What is the formula for electrical power (P) in terms of voltage (V) and current (I)?

Answer:
P = VI
Question 10

What is the SI unit of power?

Answer:
Watt
Question 11

At what voltage is electric power generated at the generating station?

Answer:
11 kV
Question 12

To what voltage is power raised for transmission to reduce energy loss?

Answer:
132 kV
Question 13

What is the voltage supplied to consumers in a city household?

Answer:
220 V
Question 14

Which device is used to increase the A.C. voltage for transmission?

Answer:
Step-up transformer
Question 15

Can D.C. voltage be increased or decreased by a transformer?

Answer:
No
Question 16

How many wires are typically in the cable supplying power to a house?

Answer:
Three
Question 17

Which wire carries current from the source to the appliance?

Answer:
Live wire
Question 18

What is the potential of the neutral wire?

Answer:
0 V
Question 19

What is the potential of the live wire in household circuits?

Answer:
220 V
Question 20

What is the colour of the live wire insulation?

Answer:
Red or Brown
Question 21

What is the colour of the neutral wire insulation?

Answer:
Black or Light Blue
Question 22

What is the colour of the earth wire insulation?

Answer:
Green or Yellow
Question 23

Which wire is connected to the metallic body of an appliance?

Answer:
Earth wire
Question 24

What is the purpose of the neutral wire?

Answer:
Return path for current
Question 25

What is the high rating fuse connected at the pole called?

Answer:
Company fuse
Question 26

What is the commercial unit of electrical energy?

Answer:
Kilowatt hour (kWh)
Question 27

What does B.O.T. stand for in electrical units?

Answer:
Board of Trade
Question 28

How many joules are in 1 kWh?

Answer:
3.6 x 10^6 J
Question 29

What instrument measures the amount of electrical energy consumed?

Answer:
kWh meter (Electric meter)
Question 30

What part of the old electric meters rotates when current flows?

Answer:
Armature
Question 31

What safety device limits the current in an electric circuit?

Answer:
Electric fuse
Question 32

What material is a fuse wire made of?

Answer:
Alloy of lead and tin
Question 33

Does a fuse wire have a high or low melting point?

Answer:
Low melting point
Question 34

In which wire is the fuse always connected?

Answer:
Live wire
Question 35

How is a fuse connected in a circuit: series or parallel?

Answer:
Series
Question 36

What happens to the fuse wire if current exceeds the specified value?

Answer:
It melts
Question 37

Which fuse wire is thicker: 5 A or 15 A?

Answer:
15 A
Question 38

Why shouldn't copper wire be used as a fuse?

Answer:
High melting point
Question 39

What does MCB stand for?

Answer:
Miniature Circuit Breaker
Question 40

How long does an MCB take to switch off during a short circuit?

Answer:
Nearly 25 milliseconds
Question 41

What happens when a live wire touches a neutral wire?

Answer:
Short circuit
Question 42

How are household appliances connected in a circuit?

Answer:
In parallel
Question 43

Why are appliances connected in parallel?

Answer:
Independent operation
Question 44

In a series connection, if one bulb fuses, what happens to the others?

Answer:
They stop glowing
Question 45

Do all appliances in a parallel circuit work at the same voltage?

Answer:
Yes
Question 46

What is the approximate melting point of a fuse wire alloy?

Answer:
200°C
Question 47

What is the purpose of earthing an appliance?

Answer:
Protection from electric shock
Question 48

What is the condition called when a circuit draws more current than designed?

Answer:
Overloading
Question 49

What two values typically make up the power rating of an appliance?

Answer:
Power and Voltage
Question 50

What is the formula to calculate the safe limit of current for an appliance?

Answer:
I = P / V
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Long Answer Questions - Practice detailed answers to these comprehensive questions. Click "Show Answer" to reveal the response.
Question 1

Explain the transmission of power from the generating station to the consumer.

Answer:
Electric power is generated at the power generating station at 11 kV. To reduce energy loss due to heating in the line wires during transmission, this voltage is raised from 11 kV to 132 kV using a step-up transformer. It is then transmitted to the grid substation. At the grid substation, the voltage is reduced from 132 kV to 33 kV. It is then sent to the main substation where it is further reduced to 11 kV. Finally, at the city substation, the voltage is stepped down to 220 V before being supplied to consumers.
Question 2

Differentiate between Direct Current (D.C.) and Alternating Current (A.C.).

Answer:
Direct Current (D.C.) is a current that remains constant with time and does not change its polarity. It is typically provided by cells or batteries. Alternating Current (A.C.) is a current that changes its magnitude and polarity with time. It is provided by mains and electric generators. In household A.C. supply, the frequency is typically 50 Hz, meaning the polarity changes 100 times per second.
Question 3

Describe the three wires found in the cable supplying power to a house, including their colour codes and functions.

Answer:
The cable contains three wires: the live wire, the neutral wire, and the earth wire. The Live (or phase) wire carries current from the source to the appliance and is maintained at 220 V. It typically has red or brown insulation. The Neutral wire provides the return path for the current and is at 0 V; it has black or light blue insulation. The Earth wire connects the metallic body of appliances to the earth for safety and is at 0 V; it has green or yellow insulation.
Question 4

Define electrical power and derive the relationship between Power (P), Potential Difference (V), and Current (I).

Answer:
Power is defined as the rate of doing work. If 'W' is the work done (or electrical energy supplied) and 't' is the time taken, then Power P = W / t. Since the work done W in moving a charge Q through a potential difference V is given by W = V * Q, and Current I = Q / t, we can substitute these values. Therefore, P = (V * Q) / t = V * (Q / t) = V * I. Thus, Power (in watts) = Potential difference (in volts) multiplied by Current (in amperes).
Question 5

What is a kilowatt-hour (kWh)? Calculate its value in Joules.

Answer:
One kilowatt-hour (kWh) is the commercial unit of electrical energy. It is defined as the amount of energy consumed when an electrical appliance of power 1 kilowatt is used for 1 hour. To convert it to Joules: 1 kWh = 1 kW x 1 h = 1000 Watts x 3600 seconds = 3,600,000 Joules = 3.6 x 10^6 Joules.
Question 6

Explain the sequence of connections from the pole to the distribution board in a house.

Answer:
To connect the cable from the pole to a house, first, a company fuse (pole fuse) of high rating (e.g., 50 A) is connected in the live wire. The cable then connects to the electric meter (kWh meter), which measures energy consumption. From the meter, connections are made to a distribution board through a main fuse (connected to the live wire) and a main switch (connected to both live and neutral wires). From the distribution board, wires go to different parts of the house.
Question 7

What is an electric fuse? Explain its construction and working principle.

Answer:
An electric fuse is a safety device used to limit the current in an electric circuit. It consists of a short, thin piece of wire made of an alloy of lead and tin, which has a low melting point. The wire is stretched between two terminals in a porcelain holder. It works on the heating effect of current. If the current in the circuit exceeds a specified safe value (due to short circuit or overload), the fuse wire heats up, melts, and breaks the circuit, thereby stopping the flow of current and preventing damage to appliances or wiring.
Question 8

State the characteristics of a fuse wire and explain why copper wire is not used as a fuse.

Answer:
A fuse wire must have high resistance relative to the connecting wires and a low melting point (around 200 degrees Celsius). It is usually made of an alloy of lead and tin. An ordinary copper wire should not be used as a fuse because it has a high melting point (about 1080 degrees Celsius). If a copper wire were used, it would not melt even if the current exceeded the safe limit, failing to break the circuit and potentially causing fire or damage to appliances.
Question 9

What is a Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) and how is it superior to an electric fuse?

Answer:
A Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) is an automatic switch used to protect household wiring from excessive current flow. When a short circuit or overload occurs, the MCB automatically switches off (falls down) to break the circuit within a very short time (approx. 25 milliseconds). It is superior to a fuse because it does not need to be replaced after tripping; it can simply be reset (raised up) once the fault is rectified.
Question 10

Explain the difference between a short circuit and overloading.

Answer:
A short circuit occurs when a live wire comes in direct contact with a neutral wire (or earth wire) due to damaged insulation. This creates a path of very low resistance, causing a massive current to flow, which can lead to sparking and fire. Overloading occurs when too many electrical appliances are connected to a single circuit or socket simultaneously, causing the total current drawn to exceed the capacity of the wires, leading to overheating.
Question 11

Why are electrical appliances in a household circuit connected in parallel rather than in series?

Answer:
Appliances are connected in parallel for several reasons: 1) Each appliance works at the same voltage (equal to the mains voltage, 220V). 2) Each appliance can be operated independently; switching one on or off does not affect the others. 3) If one appliance fails or a fuse blows in one branch, the other appliances continue to work. In a series circuit, if one component fails, the entire circuit breaks, and the voltage would be divided among components, making them run inefficiently.
Question 12

Explain the purpose of earthing in electrical appliances.

Answer:
The metallic outer body of appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and geysers is connected to the earth wire. This is known as earthing. Its purpose is to protect the user from electric shock. If the insulation of the live wire breaks and it touches the metallic body of the appliance, the body becomes charged. If earthed, this current passes immediately to the earth through the low-resistance earth wire, triggering the fuse or MCB to cut off the supply, rather than passing through the user's body.
Question 13

What is meant by the power rating of an appliance? Give an example.

Answer:
The power rating of an appliance indicates the electrical power it consumes and the voltage at which it is designed to operate. For example, if a bulb is rated '100 W - 220 V', it means that when the bulb is connected to a 220 V supply, it will consume 100 Watts of electrical power (i.e., it consumes 100 Joules of energy per second).
Question 14

Derive the formula for the safe limit of current for an appliance and calculate it for a 2 kW geyser operating at 220 V.

Answer:
The electrical power (P) is the product of voltage (V) and current (I), i.e., P = V * I. Therefore, the current I can be calculated as I = P / V. For a geyser with Power P = 2 kW (2000 W) and Voltage V = 220 V, the safe limit of current is I = 2000 / 220 = 9.09 Amperes.
Question 15

An electric bulb of 100 W, an electric iron of 750 W, and a TV of 100 W are used for 3 hours a day. Calculate the total energy consumed in kWh per day.

Answer:
First, calculate the total power: Total Power = 100 W + 750 W + 100 W = 950 W. Next, convert power to kilowatts: 950 W / 1000 = 0.95 kW. Time of usage is 3 hours. Energy consumed = Power (in kW) x Time (in hours) = 0.95 kW x 3 h = 2.85 kWh. Thus, the total energy consumed per day is 2.85 kWh (or 2.85 units).
Question 16

Describe an experiment to demonstrate static electricity using a plastic comb.

Answer:
Take a plastic comb and bring it near small bits of paper lying on a table; nothing happens initially. Now, rub the comb vigorously on dry hair and bring it close to the paper bits again. You will observe that the bits of paper are attracted to the comb and stick to it. This demonstrates that rubbing the comb with hair creates static electricity due to friction, giving the comb an electric charge that attracts the uncharged paper bits.
Question 17

Explain the two kinds of electric charges with the help of glass and ebonite rods.

Answer:
Experiments show there are two types of charges. When a glass rod is rubbed with silk, it acquires a positive charge. When an ebonite rod is rubbed with fur, it acquires a negative charge. If a charged glass rod is brought near a suspended charged glass rod, they repel (like charges repel). If a charged glass rod is brought near a suspended charged ebonite rod, they attract (unlike charges attract). This confirms the existence of two distinct types of charges: positive and negative.
Question 18

State the Law of Conservation of Charge and explain it using the example of rubbing a glass rod with silk.

Answer:
The Law of Conservation of Charge states that the total charge of an isolated system remains constant. Charge is neither created nor destroyed but transferred. Before rubbing, both the glass rod and silk are neutral. When rubbed, electrons are transferred from the glass rod to the silk. The glass rod becomes positively charged (due to loss of electrons), and the silk becomes negatively charged (due to gain of electrons) by an equal amount. The net charge of the system remains zero.
Question 19

According to the electron theory, what causes an object to become positively or negatively charged?

Answer:
According to electron theory, atoms contain protons (positive) in the nucleus and electrons (negative) orbiting them. Charging occurs due to the transfer of electrons. If an object loses electrons, it has a deficit of negative charge and becomes positively charged. If an object gains electrons, it has an excess of negative charge and becomes negatively charged. Protons do not move during this process.
Question 20

List five important precautions to be taken while using electricity.

Answer:
1) Do not touch switches or appliances with wet hands. 2) Ensure all appliances, especially those with metallic bodies, are properly earthed. 3) Use fuses or MCBs of the correct rating in the live wire. 4) Do not use ordinary copper wire as a fuse wire. 5) Switch off gadgets by removing the plug from the socket rather than just using a remote. 6) Ensure wiring has proper insulation and connections are tight.
Question 21

Calculate the electricity bill for a month (30 days) if an appliance of 1.5 kW is used for 4 hours daily, and the rate of electricity is 6.25 per unit.

Answer:
Energy consumed per day = Power x Time = 1.5 kW x 4 h = 6 kWh. Total energy consumed in 30 days = 6 kWh x 30 = 180 kWh. Since 1 kWh = 1 unit, the consumption is 180 units. Cost = Total units x Rate = 180 x 6.25 = 1125. The electricity bill is 1125.
Question 22

Why is a fuse connected to the live wire and not the neutral wire?

Answer:
A fuse is connected to the live wire to ensure that if the fuse blows due to excessive current, the appliance is completely disconnected from the high-voltage supply (220 V). If the fuse were in the neutral wire, melting it would stop the current, but the appliance would typically remain connected to the live wire, posing a risk of electric shock to anyone touching the appliance's internal parts.
Question 23

Describe an activity to show that like charges repel each other.

Answer:
Inflate two rubber balloons. Rub both of them with wool to charge them. Suspend one balloon by a thread. Bring the second charged balloon near the suspended one. You will observe that the suspended balloon moves away from the second balloon. Since both balloons were rubbed with the same material (wool), they acquired the same type of charge. Their repulsion demonstrates that like charges repel each other.
Question 24

What is the function of the main switch and where is it located in the circuit?

Answer:
The main switch is used to cut off the electricity supply to the entire house circuit. It is located on the distribution board after the electric meter. It is a double-pole switch connected to both the live and neutral wires, ensuring that both connections are broken when the switch is turned off, allowing for safe repairs or maintenance.
Question 25

Explain why the thickness of a fuse wire depends on its current rating.

Answer:
The thickness of a fuse wire determines its resistance and the current-carrying capacity. A thicker wire has less resistance and can carry more current without melting compared to a thinner wire. Therefore, a fuse with a higher current rating (e.g., 15 A) uses a thicker wire, while a fuse with a lower rating (e.g., 5 A) uses a thinner wire. The thickness is adjusted so that the wire reaches its melting point exactly when the current exceeds the rated limit.
Question 26

Identify the hazards associated with electricity.

Answer:
1) Electric Shock: Touching a live wire can cause severe shock or death. 2) Electric Fire: Short circuits or overloading can cause wires to overheat and catch fire, damaging property. 3) Damage to Appliances: Voltage fluctuations or excessive current can burn out sensitive electronic components.
Question 27

What is an electroscope? Brief its primary function.

Answer:
An electroscope is a simple scientific device used to detect the presence of an electric charge on a body. It can also determine the nature of the charge (positive or negative) if the electroscope is already charged. It typically uses light leaves (like gold or aluminium) that diverge when charged due to repulsion.
Question 28

Differentiate between Series and Parallel circuits based on the behavior of bulbs connected in them.

Answer:
In a series circuit, if two bulbs are connected, they share the voltage. If one bulb fuses or is removed, the circuit is broken, and the other bulb stops glowing. In a parallel circuit, both bulbs receive the full source voltage. If one bulb fuses or is removed, the other bulb continues to glow brightly as its independent circuit path remains complete.
Question 29

Calculate the safe current for a 1.5 kW electric heater connected to a 220 V mains supply. Would a 5 A fuse be suitable?

Answer:
Power P = 1.5 kW = 1500 W. Voltage V = 220 V. Current I = P / V = 1500 / 220 = 6.81 A. The safe current is approximately 6.8 A. A 5 A fuse would not be suitable because the normal operating current (6.8 A) exceeds the fuse rating (5 A), causing the fuse to blow immediately when the heater is turned on. A fuse rating of roughly 7 A or 10 A would be required.
Question 30

What is the historical origin of the word 'Electricity'?

Answer:
The word 'electricity' comes from the Greek word 'elektron', which means amber. About 2500 years ago, the Greek philosopher Thales discovered that when amber was rubbed with wool, it acquired the property of attracting light objects like bits of straw or paper. This phenomenon of static electricity produced by friction led to the term electricity.
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Quick Review Flashcards - Click to flip and test your knowledge!
Question
What type of current is provided by a cell or a battery, which remains constant with time?
Answer
Direct current (D.C.).
Question
What type of current, provided by mains and electric generators, changes its magnitude and polarity with time?
Answer
Alternating current (A.C.).
Question
What is the standard frequency of the A.C. used in households?
Answer
50 Hz, meaning the polarity changes 50 times positive and 50 times negative in one second.
Question
What is defined as the work done in moving a unit charge from one electrode to another in a circuit?
Answer
Potential difference.
Question
What is the standard unit of potential difference, named after Alessandro Volta?
Answer
Volt (V).
Question
What is defined as the rate of flow of charges in a unit time?
Answer
Current.
Question
What is the standard unit of current, named after Andre Marie Ampere?
Answer
Ampere (A).
Question
What is the formula relating electrical energy (W), potential difference (V), current (I), and time (t)?
Answer
$W = VIt$
Question
What is the formula relating electrical power (P), potential difference (V), and current (I)?
Answer
$P = VI$
Question
What is the definition of one watt of electrical power?
Answer
1 watt = 1 volt × 1 ampere.
Question
At what voltage is electric power typically generated at a power generating station?
Answer
11 kV (11,000 volts).
Question
Why is the voltage of electricity raised using a step-up transformer before long-distance transmission?
Answer
To reduce the loss of energy in the form of heat in the transmission lines.
Question
A household electrical supply cable has three wires. What are they called?
Answer
Live wire, neutral wire, and earth wire.
Question
In household wiring, what is the potential difference between the live wire and the neutral wire?
Answer
220 V.
Question
What is the potential of the neutral and earth wires in a household circuit?
Answer
Both are at zero potential (0 V).
Question
What is the purpose of the live wire in a household circuit?
Answer
It carries the current from the source to the appliance.
Question
What is the purpose of the neutral wire in a household circuit?
Answer
It provides the return path for the current from the appliance to the source.
Question
What is the standard color for the insulation of a live wire?
Answer
Red or brown.
Question
What is the standard color for the insulation of a neutral wire?
Answer
Black or light blue.
Question
What is the standard color for the insulation of an earth wire?
Answer
Green or yellow.
Question
What is the commercial unit used to measure electrical energy consumption?
Answer
The kilowatt-hour (kWh), also called the Board of Trade (B.O.T) unit.
Question
How is one kilowatt-hour (kWh) defined?
Answer
It is the amount of energy consumed when an electrical appliance of power 1 kilowatt is used for 1 hour.
Question
How many joules are equivalent to one kilowatt-hour (kWh)?
Answer
$3.6 \times 10^6$ Joules.
Question
What is the primary function of an electric fuse in a circuit?
Answer
To limit the current in an electric circuit and protect appliances from damage due to voltage fluctuations or short circuiting.
Question
What are the two key characteristics of a fuse wire?
Answer
It has a low melting point and high resistance.
Question
A fuse wire is typically made of an alloy of which two metals?
Answer
Lead and tin.
Question
In which wire of a household circuit is the fuse always connected?
Answer
The live wire.
Question
Why is an ordinary copper wire unsuitable to be used as a fuse wire?
Answer
Its melting point is very high, so it will not melt and break the circuit when the current exceeds its safe limit.
Question
What safety device is an automatic switch that is now commonly used instead of a fuse?
Answer
A miniature circuit breaker (MCB).
Question
How does a miniature circuit breaker (MCB) protect a circuit?
Answer
When the current exceeds a safe value, the MCB automatically falls down to break the electric circuit.
Question
In what configuration are all electrical appliances in a home, office, or school connected?
Answer
In parallel.
Question
What are the two main advantages of connecting household appliances in parallel?
Answer
Each appliance can be operated independently with a separate switch, and all appliances work at the same voltage.
Question
What is the purpose of earthing (or grounding) an electrical appliance?
Answer
To protect the user from an electric shock if the live wire accidentally touches the metallic case of the appliance.
Question
To which part of an appliance is the earth wire connected?
Answer
The metallic outer body (case) of the appliance.
Question
What condition occurs when a naked live wire comes into contact with a neutral wire?
Answer
A short circuit.
Question
What is meant by 'overloading' an electric circuit?
Answer
It is a condition where the circuit draws more current than it is designed for, often by connecting too many high-power devices.
Question
An electric bulb is rated '100 W – 220 V'. What does this rating mean?
Answer
It means that when the bulb is lit on a 220 V supply, it consumes 100 W of electrical power.
Question
What formula is used to find the safe limit of current (I) for an appliance with power rating (P) and voltage (V)?
Answer
$I = \frac{P}{V}$
Question
What is the formula to calculate the electrical energy consumed in kWh?
Answer
Energy (kWh) = $\frac{\text{Power (watt)} \times \text{time (hour)}}{1000}$
Question
Why should one not touch electrical switches or appliances with wet hands?
Answer
Water is a good conductor of electricity, which can lead to a severe electric shock.
Question
What kind of electricity is due to the motion of charges (or electrons)?
Answer
Current electricity.
Question
What kind of electricity is due to charges at rest?
Answer
Static electricity or frictional electricity.
Question
How can an object like a plastic comb or glass rod be electrically charged?
Answer
By rubbing it with another suitable material (like dry hair, silk, or wool).
Question
A charged object, such as a plastic ruler rubbed with wool, will attract small, uncharged pieces of _____.
Answer
paper
Question
What are the two kinds of electric charges?
Answer
Positive and negative charges.
Question
State the fundamental law regarding the interaction between electric charges.
Answer
Like charges repel each other, and unlike charges attract each other.
Question
A glass rod rubbed with silk cloth acquires what type of charge?
Answer
A positive charge.
Question
An ebonite rod rubbed with fur acquires what type of charge?
Answer
A negative charge.
Question
What is the principle of conservation of charges?
Answer
The total charge of an isolated system before and after rubbing remains the same (zero).
Question
What is the microscopic explanation for an object becoming charged through rubbing?
Answer
Free electrons are transferred from one object to the other.
Question
An object that _____ free electrons becomes positively charged.
Answer
loses
Question
An object that _____ free electrons becomes negatively charged.
Answer
gains
Question
When a glass rod is rubbed with silk, electrons are transferred from the _____ to the _____.
Answer
glass rod; silk cloth
Question
The Greek word 'elektron', from which 'electricity' is derived, means what?
Answer
Amber (a kind of resin).
Question
The instrument used for detecting an electric charge on an object is known as an _____.
Answer
electroscope
Question
What happens if a fused bulb is used in a series circuit with another working bulb?
Answer
The circuit becomes incomplete, and the other bulb will not glow.
Question
What happens if a bulb fuses in a parallel circuit with other working bulbs?
Answer
The other bulbs remain unaffected and continue to glow.
Question
What is the purpose of the main switch in a household electrical circuit?
Answer
It is connected to the live and neutral wires to switch the main supply on or off.
Question
A fuse with a higher current rating (e.g., 15 A) has a _____ wire than a fuse with a lower rating (e.g., 5 A).
Answer
thicker
Question
The property of a fuse wire's resistance is that it is _____ than that of the connecting copper wires.
Answer
higher