An extension lead has a 13 A fuse in its plug.
The extension lead is connected to the 230 V mains supply. Several appliances are plugged into the extension lead and are connected in parallel.
The Table shows the power rating of each appliance.
Table
| Appliance | Power rating in W\text{W}W |
|---|---|
| heater | 2000 |
| kettle | 1500 |
| toaster | 900 |
| lamp | 60 |
Calculate the current in the heater when it is working normally.
All four appliances are switched on at the same time.
Determine whether the fuse in the extension lead will melt.
A student replaces the fuse in the extension lead with a piece of thick copper wire.
Explain why this could cause a fire when all four appliances are switched on.
81 exam-style questions on Edexcel GCSE Physics 10.4 Mains electricity, covering 10.4.1 Direct and alternating current, 10.4.2 Live, neutral and earth wires; safety, 10.4.3 Mains wire potential differences and dangers, and 10.4.4 Power ratings and energy use. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.