MAINS VOLTAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Mains voltage refers to the standardized electrical voltage level that is supplied by the utility company or power grid to households, businesses, and other electrical devices. It is the voltage level available at the electrical outlet or socket where electrical appliances and equipment are connected.
In most countries, the mains voltage is typically alternating current (AC) and is standardized to ensure compatibility and safety across the electrical grid. The most common mains voltage levels globally are 110-120 volts (V) in North America, parts of South America, and some Asian countries, and 220-240 V in Europe, Australia, and other parts of the world. These voltage levels are measured between two electrical conductors, typically referred to as the hot and neutral wires.
Mains voltage is selected based on a variety of factors, including historical practices, safety considerations, and the requirements of electrical appliances and equipment. It is important to note that different countries or regions may have different mains voltage levels, and using incompatible voltage levels can damage electrical devices or pose serious safety risks.
To utilize mains voltage safely, electrical devices are designed to operate within specific voltage ranges. Appliances and equipment typically have built-in voltage conversion or regulation mechanisms to ensure proper function and protection against damage from voltage fluctuations. Additionally, power adapters and voltage transformers can be used to convert mains voltage to the appropriate level for specific devices in cases where compatibility is lacking.
Common Misspellings for MAINS VOLTAGE
- nains voltage
- kains voltage
- jains voltage
- mzins voltage
- msins voltage
- mwins voltage
- mqins voltage
- mauns voltage
- majns voltage
- makns voltage
- maons voltage
- ma9ns voltage
- ma8ns voltage
- maibs voltage
- maims voltage
- maijs voltage
- maihs voltage
- maina voltage
- mainz voltage
- mainx voltage
Etymology of MAINS VOLTAGE
The term "mains voltage" originated from the combination of two words: "mains" and "voltage".
1. Mains: The word "mains" comes from the Old English word "gemǣne", which means "common" or "shared". In the context of electricity, it refers to the public electricity supply system, also known as "the grid" or "power grid". The term "mains" is primarily used in British English.
2. Voltage: The word "voltage" was derived from the Latin word "voltus", which means "to roll" or "to turn". It was first introduced in the mid-19th century by the Italian physicist Alessandro Volta, who invented the electric battery.
Combining these two words, "mains voltage" refers to the voltage or electric potential provided by the public electricity supply system.
