What is the voltage and frequency of the typical UK mains supply?

What is the voltage and frequency of the typical UK mains supply?

• A. 120V, 60 Hz
• B. 240V, 60 Hz
• C. 230V, 50 Hz
• D. 110V, 50 Hz

Answer: (C)

UK mains is alternating current with a nominal voltage of 230 volts and a frequency of 50 hertz. Voltage is specified as RMS, so the peak voltage is about 325 V. This 230 V figure is the standard across the UK (and much of Europe), with typical tolerance to cover fluctuations in the supply. The frequency of 50 Hz is what the grid operates at, ensuring synchronized operation of electrical devices. The other options correspond to North American standards (120 V at 60 Hz or 110 V at 50 Hz) and do not match the UK’s typical supply. So the familiar pairing is 230 V, 50 Hz.

UK mains is alternating current with a nominal voltage of 230 volts and a frequency of 50 hertz. Voltage is specified as RMS, so the peak voltage is about 325 V. This 230 V figure is the standard across the UK (and much of Europe), with typical tolerance to cover fluctuations in the supply. The frequency of 50 Hz is what the grid operates at, ensuring synchronized operation of electrical devices. The other options correspond to North American standards (120 V at 60 Hz or 110 V at 50 Hz) and do not match the UK’s typical supply. So the familiar pairing is 230 V, 50 Hz.