Voltage with SI prefixes: Seven thousand volts should be written using a single standard prefix as which of the following?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 7 kV

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Expressing values with the correct SI prefix keeps specifications concise and unambiguous. Here we convert a raw number of volts into a properly prefixed voltage unit.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Given voltage: 7000 V.
  • Prefixes: kilo (k) = 10^3, mega (M) = 10^6, milli (m) = 10^-3.
  • Goal: choose the correct single-prefix expression.


Concept / Approach:
For thousands, use kilo. Divide by 10^3 to convert volts to kilovolts. Mega and milli would misrepresent the magnitude by many orders of magnitude.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Compute: 7000 V / 1000 = 7 kV.Check scale: 7 MV = 7 × 10^6 V (far larger); 7 mV = 7 × 10^-3 V (far smaller).Select the exact matching option: '7 kV'.


Verification / Alternative check:
Reverse operation: 7 kV × 1000 = 7000 V. This confirms the choice precisely.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 7 MV: Equals 7,000,000 V; not equivalent.
  • 7 mV: Equals 0.007 V; not equivalent.
  • either 7 kV or 7 mV: Includes an obviously incorrect alternative.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Confusing uppercase M (mega) with lowercase m (milli).
  • Overlooking that kV is the standard way to express thousands of volts.


Final Answer:
7 kV

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion