When will an RCD (residual current device) disconnect a circuit?
- Leaving Cert Physics - Question g - 2009
Question g
When will an RCD (residual current device) disconnect a circuit?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:When will an RCD (residual current device) disconnect a circuit?
- Leaving Cert Physics - Question g - 2009
Step 1
When the magnitude of the current flowing in differs
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Answer
An RCD will disconnect a circuit when it detects a difference between the current flowing into the circuit and the current flowing out. This imbalance typically indicates a leakage current, which poses a safety risk.
Step 2
Leakage of current to earth (ground)
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Answer
The device is designed to monitor the current flowing through the live wire and the neutral wire. If there is a leakage of current to the earth (or ground), signaling that the current is not returning properly, the RCD will trip and disconnect the circuit to prevent electric shock or fire hazards.
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