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Pearson Edexcel International GCSE (9–1) · PHYSICS · Section

TRANSFORMERS AND NATIONAL GRIDS

16 practice questions

Practice questions

11–16 of 16

  1. Question 11

    2 marks · Normal

    Give two reasons why high voltages are dangerous in the National Grid and must be reduced before entering homes.

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  2. Question 12

    3 marks · Normal

    The table shows information about two types of transformers.

    Transformer data
    Type of transformerNumber of primary turnsNumber of secondary turnsUse in National Grid
    X3009000
    Y4000200

    Complete the table by stating the use of each transformer in the National Grid: either 'step-up' or 'step-down'.

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  3. Question 13

    4 marks · Normal

    Electricity is transmitted over long distances from power stations to towns.

    Explain in detail, using scientific ideas about current and voltage, how transformers help to reduce energy loss during this transmission.

    (a)

    Describe what happens to the current in the transmission wires when a step-up transformer increases the voltage.

    [2 marks]
    (b)

    Explain why this change in current is important for energy loss.

    [2 marks]
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  4. Question 14

    4 marks · Normal

    A village receives electricity from a National Grid. The voltage on the transmission cables is 132,000 V.

    (a)

    Give two reasons why a step-down transformer is needed before the electricity enters homes.

    [2 marks]
    (b)

    The step-down transformer reduces the voltage to 230 V. Explain what happens to the current in the secondary coil compared to the primary coil, assuming no energy is lost.

    [2 marks]
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  5. Question 15

    3 marks · Normal

    Explain, using scientific ideas, why it would be inefficient and impractical to transmit electricity at low voltage but high current.

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  6. Question 16

    4 marks · Normal

    Draw a labelled diagram of a transformer. Include the following labels: primary coil, secondary coil, soft iron core, input (AC supply), and output.

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