Practice Test Geeks(AEP) American Electric Power Practice Test
← All AEP Flashcard Decks

Power Generation & Transmission Flashcards

7 cards from real AEP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Power Generation & Transmission flashcards as text

  1. What is the primary purpose of a step-up transformer at a power plant substation?

    Answer: Increase voltage to minimize transmission losses

    Step-up transformers increase voltage (and reduce current) so that resistive losses (I²R) are minimized over long transmission distances.

  2. Which fuel source accounts for the largest share of AEP's electricity generation capacity?

    Answer: Coal

    Historically, coal has accounted for the largest share of AEP's generation capacity, though the company is actively transitioning toward natural gas and renewables.

  3. What does 'baseload generation' mean in the context of power plant operations?

    Answer: Plants that provide minimum constant output to meet steady demand

    Baseload plants operate at a continuous, steady output level to meet the minimum (base) level of electricity demand that exists around the clock.

  4. In an AC transmission system, what is the standard frequency used in the United States?

    Answer: 60 Hz

    The U.S. grid operates at 60 Hz, meaning the alternating current completes 60 cycles per second.

  5. What is 'reactive power' (VAR) and why is it important for transmission grids?

    Answer: Power that supports voltage levels but does no real work

    Reactive power (measured in VARs) is necessary to maintain voltage levels across the grid, even though it does not perform useful work in loads.

  6. Which switching device is used to isolate a section of transmission line for maintenance without de-energizing the entire system?

    Answer: Disconnect switch

    Disconnect switches (also called isolators) physically separate a line segment from the energized grid, allowing safe maintenance after a circuit breaker has interrupted load current.

  7. What does 'transmission congestion' refer to in electric power systems?

    Answer: A condition where transmission lines cannot carry all desired power flows

    Transmission congestion occurs when the physical limits of transmission lines prevent all desired electricity trades from flowing, often raising locational prices.