WAEC 2015 Physics · Question 40

An electric generator rated 12 kW, 2 kV distribute power through a cable of resistance 20Ω\Omega. Calculate the power loss in the cable.

Options

  1. A.120 w
  2. B.360 w
  3. C.720 w
  4. D.2400 w

Answer: C. 720 w

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: A generator delivers 12 kW at 2 kV through a cable of resistance 20 Ω. We need the power wasted as heat in the cable.

Concept: Power loss in a cable is P_loss = I²R. First find the current from P = IV.

Solution:

  1. Current: I = P / V = 12000 / 2000 = 6 A
  1. Power loss: P_loss = I²R = 6² × 20 = 36 × 20 = 720 W

Answer: 720 W, which is option C.

Tip: For transmission-loss questions, always find the current first with I = P/V, then use I²R. This is also why power is transmitted at high voltage: a higher V means a lower I, and the loss falls with the square of the current.

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