domestic uses and safety

• what does a.c stand for

  alternating current
• what does d.c stand for

  direct current
• what type of supply does mains electricity have

  a.c - alternating current
• define alternating current

  current that is constantly changing direction
• define direct current

  one directional current flow
• what is the frequency of the uk mains supply

  50Hz
• what is the voltage of the uk mains supply

  230v
• what are the 3 main wires in cables called

  earth, live and neutral
• what are the colours of the earth wire

  green and yellow stripes
• what is the colour of the live wire

  brown
• what is the colour of the neutral wire

  blue
• does current flow through the earth wire

  no
• how many volts are at the neutral wire

  0 volts
• what is the potential difference between the live and earth wires

  230volts
• what is the purpose of the neutral wire

  to complete the circuit by connecting the appliance back to the mains supply
• for metal appliances, where is the earth wire connected to

  the metal casing of the appliance