For a wye connected device, how does the line voltage compare to the phase voltage?

In a wye (or star) connected system, the relationship between the line voltage and the phase voltage is crucial for understanding how three-phase electrical systems operate. In such a configuration, each phase voltage is measured between one of the terminals and the neutral point.

The line voltage, on the other hand, is the voltage measured between any two of the three lines. The mathematical relationship between line voltage (V_L) and phase voltage (V_P) in a wye connection is given by the formula:

[

V_L = \sqrt{3} \times V_P

]

This results in the line voltage being higher than the phase voltage by a factor of approximately 1.732, which is the square root of 3. This relationship is essential in power systems to ensure proper voltage levels are maintained for equipment and for the efficient operation of the system.

Understanding this ratio is vital for engineers and electricians working in three-phase systems, as it affects calculations related to power, load, and system design. Thus, the correct choice accurately reflects the fundamental properties of wye connected devices.