Figure 1 shows the inside of a plug - AQA - GCSE Physics Combined Science - Question 1 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 1
Figure 1 shows the inside of a plug.
The plug is not wired correctly.
What should be done to connect the wires in the plug correctly?
The correctly wired plug and ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 1 shows the inside of a plug - AQA - GCSE Physics Combined Science - Question 1 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Give the potential difference and frequency of the mains electricity supply in the UK.
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Answer
The potential difference is 230 V.
The frequency is 50 Hz.
Step 2
What is the potential difference between the neutral wire and the earth wire?
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Answer
Potential difference = 0 V.
Step 3
Draw the circuit symbol for a fuse in the space below.
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Answer
The circuit symbol for a fuse typically appears as a rectangle with a line cutting through it, often drawn with an additional line indicating a wire.
Step 4
Explain why it would not be safe for a person to touch the metal case.
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Answer
It would not be safe for a person to touch the metal case because the person could get an electric shock. This happens because there is a current in the person, providing a connection from the washing machine to the earth.
Step 5
Explain why it would now be safe for a person to touch the metal case, even if the live wire touches the metal case.
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Answer
It would now be safe for a person to touch the metal case because the charge flows through the earth wire instead of the person. The resistance of the earth wire is much less than that of a person, allowing the fuse to break or blow, preventing electric shock.
