Question

What is the problem when a multi-plugs adaptor is used to connect many applications to the same socket?

Answer 1

Hint: When you attempt questions like the one presented to us here, keep in mind Ohm’s law and the various concepts revolving around the same. Keep in mind the relationship between current and how it varies with voltage and resistance and use the concepts as required.

Complete step-by-step answer:
We know that in Ohm’s law it is stated that when current passes through a conductor it is directly proportional to the voltage and inversely proportional to resistance.
It is also given as
\[V = IR\]
The circuit can only handle a limited amount of current and if more current is drawn than its capacity the system can overload and it may lead to many situations, some may result in the system going haywire and the circuit overheating , or some results can be where the applications themselves are damaged beyond repair. Both of these situations are undesirable.
It is not just about current but about the power usage too. When many applications are used in one socket plug, they will demand a large amount of power for their usage and in turn more current will be drawn. This may lead to overloading and fire. But it is not always the case. If the socket is new and all the circuits are brand new there is a chance this might not happen but it will definitely happen with a socket which is old and loose.
There is also a case of fuse or circuit breakers which break the circuit before any permanent damage can occur in the system to prevent such catastrophes.
It all comes down to what is the capacity of the circuit, that is how much current and voltage can the circuit handle. If you know the capacity, use applications suitable for the same.
But we can conclude by saying that if you use many applications in one single socket, the current drawn from the mains will get higher and can lead to overheating.

Note: Power is the rate of using or supplying energy and is given by the formula of \[P = I \times V\]where power is in \[Watts\]and voltage is in \[Volts\]and current is in\[Ampere\]. Keep in mind that if power increases then the current drawn will also increase and that can lead to damage.