Chapter 2

Power

System Fundamentals

One of the most important areas of electrical knowledge is the study
of electrical power. Complex systems supply the vast need of our country
for electrical power. Because of our tremendous power requirement, we
must constantly be concerned with the efficient operation of our power
production and power conversion systems. This textbook deals with the
characteristics of electrical power production systems, power distribution
systems, power conversion systems, and power control systems. In addi-
tion, an overview of electrical power measurement systems is included in
this unit.

IMPORTANT TERMS

Systems Concept
Electrical System
Source
Path
Control
Load
Indicator
Energy
Kinetic Energy
Potential Energy
Work
Power
Force
Electrical Power Systems Model
Electrical Power Measurement
Electrical Power Production
Electrical Power Distribution

15