Electrical Engineering XYZ MCQs
If the fault is very nearer to the generator, the fault current is:
- Larger
- Zero
- Less
- Any of the above
Correct answer: 1. Larger
Explanation: When a fault occurs very close to the generator in an electrical power system, the fault current is typically larger compared to faults occurring farther away. This is because the impedance between the generator and the fault location is lower when the fault is closer, leading to a higher current flow.
To elaborate:
- In an electrical power system, the fault current is the current that flows when a fault, such as a short circuit or ground fault, occurs.
- The fault current depends on factors such as the system voltage, the impedance of the network components, and the location of the fault.
- When a fault occurs very close to the generator, the impedance between the generator and the fault location is primarily composed of the low impedance of the generator itself and the short distance of transmission lines or cables.
- Since the impedance is lower, according to Ohm’s law (V = I * Z), where V is voltage, I is current, and Z is impedance, a lower impedance results in a higher fault current for a given voltage.
- Therefore, when the fault is very close to the generator, the fault current tends to be larger compared to faults occurring farther away.