American Use of Electrical Power Systems

Americans don’t often think about electricity when it works fine. But in the event of an electrical shortage or earthquake that turns off electricity, suddenly it becomes apparent how much of life is surrounded by electricity. Turning lights on and off is obviously electric, but how about the refrigerator, stove, curling iron, clothes dryer, fan, television, and even phone charger? American’s are extremely dependent on electrical power systems without even realizing it, and often times not knowing what they are or how they work. Electricity should not be avoided simply because we know nothing about it. We should want to familiarize ourselves with this important subject, since we do use it every day. Contrary to popular belief, basic electricity information is not difficult to understand.

Understanding Electrical Power Systems

Electrical Power Systems are located all throughout the country and are fueled by various materials. Some of the most common techniques used to supply electricity to home and businesses are coal, water, wind, and recently nuclear energy. There are even certain valleys that contain large wind turbines – these can interest your child and allow you to begin a dialogue about electricity with them. There are two types of electric power that is easily to distinguish. The first is alternating current (AC) which is typically what we think of our AC/Heater, Fridge/Freezer, and Light Switches. The second is a much more recent development called direct current (DC) which is typically what we use to power our phones, laptops, or cameras when we are using them on the go.

Typically there are grids that allow the electricity to be centralized in one area. All incoming current or power being generated by the fuel will be directed into the grid and all outgoing electric power will be distributed among appropriate recipients. These recipients will have certain loads that they can receive and various electrical-using equipment will use up different loads. We see this in the form of voltage. Every electrical appliance we own has a certain voltage number on it. When we exceed the overall voltage in our own home, we short a fuse and the electricity goes out.

Early Electrical Power Systems

The first electric current was developed in the early 1880′s and since then the electrical power systems have developed in ways unimaginable to those first inventors of electricity. There is much more to discover when it comes to electricity, currents, power, and fuel. There may a local electric company in your area that could answer any questions you have regarding your electricity as well as questions you have about how it may work. You may even be able to visit the electric company on a field trip.

When it becomes apparent the amount of electricity that Americans need, use, and rely on in just one given day, more respect is owed to those who work in the electric power systems industry. There should be more attention paid to development and practice of new techniques. After realizing the impact that electricity has on our everyday lives we should be eager to learn more and be more supportive.