GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Electrical Safety

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Electricity Domestic uses and safety

Electrical Safety

1:44 Mains Electricity
Spec 4.2.3.2
Previous Earthing Next Electrical Power
  • Three wires in a cable have different potentials: live wire, neutral wire, and earth wire.
  • Live wire is at 230 volts to supply energy to appliances.
  • Neutral wire is approximately zero volts to allow current to complete the circuit.
  • Earth wire is at zero volts to direct current in case of a fault.
  • Neutral wire is slightly above zero volts to prioritize the earth wire during a fault.
  • Live wire is the most dangerous due to its large potential difference, even if the appliance is off.
  • Touching a live wire can cause current to flow through a person into the earth.
  • Main socket switches are important to cut off the live supply when not in use.
  • Plugs can still be dangerous if current flows through them.
  • Safety features in plugs include a fuse connected to the live wire.
  • The fuse breaks the circuit if the current is too large, melting or breaking when dangerous.
  • Detailed knowledge of fuses and plugs is not required for exams.

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