In voltage loss, using a thicker cable results in what effect on voltage loss?

In voltage loss, using a thicker cable results in what effect on voltage loss?

• A. More
• B. Less
• C. The same
• D. Unknown

Answer: (B)

Voltage loss along a wire is set by V_drop = I × R, so it depends on the resistance of the conductor. A wire’s resistance is inversely proportional to its cross-sectional area: a thicker cable has a larger area and therefore lower resistance for the same length and material. With the current held constant, the smaller resistance means a smaller voltage drop, so using a thicker cable reduces voltage loss. For example, doubling the cross-sectional area roughly halves the resistance and the voltage drop along that run. At the same time, thicker cables can carry more current with less loss, improving overall transmission efficiency.

Voltage loss along a wire is set by V_drop = I × R, so it depends on the resistance of the conductor. A wire’s resistance is inversely proportional to its cross-sectional area: a thicker cable has a larger area and therefore lower resistance for the same length and material. With the current held constant, the smaller resistance means a smaller voltage drop, so using a thicker cable reduces voltage loss. For example, doubling the cross-sectional area roughly halves the resistance and the voltage drop along that run. At the same time, thicker cables can carry more current with less loss, improving overall transmission efficiency.