Safety and work practicesQuestion 1004 of 1506

Why do power distribution designers choose very high transmission voltages even though the shock danger is higher?

  1. Lower current allows thinner, cheaper wire
  2. Higher voltage makes the wire safer to touch
  3. Higher voltage reduces the power delivered
  4. It lowers the resistance of the load
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Correct answer: Lower current allows thinner, cheaper wire

The cost of conductors drops with current. Distribution lines are kept out of reach on poles and towers to control the shock hazard.

Source: Lessons in Electric Circuits II: AC (Kuphaldt), 7.1: Single-Phase Power Systems

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026