In a three-phase system, how are the voltages separated?

In a three-phase system, the voltages are separated by 120 degrees. This separation is essential for the balanced operation of the system, ensuring that the power delivery is stable and efficient.

In practice, the three-phase voltages are generated such that each phase reaches its peak at one-third of a cycle apart from the others. This configuration means that at any given moment, one phase is at its maximum positive, while another phase is likely at a different point in its cycle, either moving towards or away from that peak. Consequently, this phase separation enables continuous power flow and contributes to efficient power transmission.

A separation of 120 degrees allows for optimal energy transfer from the source to the load, reducing the likelihood of fluctuations and imbalances that can occur in systems with different phase separations. The other options (90 degrees, 180 degrees, and 360 degrees) do not provide the same balance or efficiency necessary for a three-phase system, making 120 degrees the correct choice.