Electric utility companies transmit power at high voltages primarily to reduce transmission power losses, which are proportional to the square of the current (I²) multiplied by the resistance (R) of the transmission lines. This relationship is expressed by the formula for power loss: P_loss = I²R.
Key Points:
* Power Loss and Current Relationship:Power losses in transmission lines are directly proportional to the square of the current flowing through them. Reducing the current decreases these losses significantly.
* High Voltage Transmission:By increasing the transmission voltage, the current required to deliver the same amount of power decreases. This is because power (P) is the product of voltage (V) and current (I): P = VI. For a given power level, increasing voltage allows for a corresponding decrease in current.
* Reduced I²R Losses:Lower current results in reduced I²R losses, enhancing the efficiency of power transmission over long distances.
Conclusion:
Transmitting power at high voltages minimizes transmission losses, making it the most efficient method for long-distance electrical power delivery. Therefore, the correct answer is C. Transmission power losses (I²R) are less.