Current, potential difference and resistance

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Question 9
Easy

Figure 1 shows a cross-section through a hybrid high-voltage overhead transmission cable.

Cross-section of a transmission cable consisting of a central dark-grey circular wire representing a steel core, closely surrounded by six lighter-grey circular wires representing aluminium strands. Arrows label the central wire as 'steel core' and the outer wires as 'aluminium strands'.

A 1-metre length of a single aluminium strand has a much lower electrical resistance than a 1-metre length of the central steel core. The individual strands behave as if they are resistors connected in parallel.

Explain why the current in the steel core is smaller than the current in a single aluminium strand.

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Current, potential difference and resistance Questions

  1. GCSE
  2. /Physics
  3. /Current, potential difference and resistance