What typically happens to the efficiency of distribution conductors as the temperature increases?

As the temperature increases, the efficiency of distribution conductors typically decreases due to increased resistance. This occurs because the electrical resistance of most conductors, such as copper or aluminum, rises with temperature. When resistance increases, more energy is lost as heat when electrical current passes through the conductor, leading to lower efficiency in the system.

Higher temperatures cause the atoms in the conductor to vibrate more, which impedes the flow of electrons, making it harder for current to flow. As a result, a greater portion of the energy supplied is dissipated as heat rather than being effectively transmitted, adversely affecting the overall performance of the electrical distribution system. Therefore, understanding the relationship between temperature and efficiency is crucial in the design and operation of electrical distribution systems to ensure optimal performance and energy conservation.