Other properties of electromagnetic waves have potential for future communication technologies and data storage technologies. 8.3 Electrical Energy in the Home Contextual Outline Modern society is geared to using electricity. Electricity has characteristics that have made it uniquely appropriate for powering a highly technological society. There are many energy sources that can readily be converted into electricity. In Australia, most power plants burn a fuel, such as coal, or use the energy of falling water, to generate electricity on a large-scale.
Electricity is also relatively easy to distribute.
Electricity authorities use high-voltage transmission lines and transformers to distribute electricity to homes and industries around each state. As electricity became increasingly used as the main power supply in homes and electrical appliances became an integral part of daily life for many Australians, the dangers associated with electricity have become more prominent. Voltages as low as 20V can be dangerous to the human body depending on the health of the person and the length of time of contact with the current. Safety devices in household appliances and within the electric circuits in the home can prevent electrical injury or assist in reducing the potential for electric shock. Assumed Knowledge From Sciences Stage 4-5 syllabus.