Rankers Physics

Alternating Current: Practice Problem & Solution

42. Two cables of copper are of equal lengths. One of them has a single wire of area of cross-section A, while other has 10 wires of cross-sectional area A/10 each. Give their suitability for transporting A.C. and D.C (1994)
Only multiple strands for A.C., either for D.C.
Only multiple strands for A.C., only single strand for D.C.
Only single strand for D.C., either for A.C.
Only single strand for A.C., either for D.C.

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Alternating Current. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Alternating current (A.C.) exhibits the skin effect, concentrating on the conductor's surface.
Multiple stranded wires have a larger effective surface area, reducing resistance for A.C.
Direct current (D.C.) flows uniformly across the entire cross-section.
Thus, multiple strands are suitable for A.C., and either can be used for D.C.

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