Uses & Dangers of Electric Heating (Edexcel GCSE Physics: Combined Science)

Revision Note

Test yourself
Katie M

Author

Katie M

Last updated

Advantages & Disadvantages

Advantages of the Heating Effect

  • The heating effect is very useful in appliances which are intended to heat up, such as:
    • Electric kettles
    • Electric ovens
    • Domestic heating
    • Electric toasters

boiling-kettle-store, IGCSE & GCSE Physics revision notes

A kettle converts electrical work to a thermal energy store

Disadvantages of the Heating Effect

  • It results in energy loss, reducing efficiency
    • For example, waste heat in a light bulb or overheating in a computer

  • It can pose a fire hazard – many domestic fires are caused by too much current passing through low-quality wiring
    • For example, sparks or excessive heat in an electric motor

You've read 0 of your 5 free revision notes this week

Sign up now. It’s free!

Join the 100,000+ Students that ❤️ Save My Exams

the (exam) results speak for themselves:

Did this page help you?

Katie M

Author: Katie M

Expertise: Physics

Katie has always been passionate about the sciences, and completed a degree in Astrophysics at Sheffield University. She decided that she wanted to inspire other young people, so moved to Bristol to complete a PGCE in Secondary Science. She particularly loves creating fun and absorbing materials to help students achieve their exam potential.