What is the line to neutral to line to line voltage ratio in a three-phase wye system?

In a three-phase wye system, the relationship between line-to-neutral voltage and line-to-line voltage is a fundamental concept to understand. In this configuration, the line-to-line voltage (also known as phase voltage) can be calculated from the line-to-neutral voltage (also known as phase voltage) using the formula:

Line-to-line voltage = Line-to-neutral voltage × √3 (approximately 1.732).

This means that the line-to-line voltage is √3 times greater than the line-to-neutral voltage. Therefore, when we set up the ratio of line-to-neutral voltage to line-to-line voltage, it simplifies to 1 to √3, which is approximately 1 to 1.73.

This specific relationship is critical for calculating the operational characteristics of electrical systems and ensures compatibility with the equipment that operates on these voltages. Understanding this concept is essential for ensuring safe and effective operation in three-phase power systems.

The incorrect choices reflect misunderstandings of this relationship; for instance, a ratio of 1 to 2 would suggest a different mathematical relationship that does not apply in a wye configuration.