: a unit of potential difference equal to 1000 volts
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the WebAn article in RadioGraphics has highlighted some exciting CT techniques that do this, such as low-kilovolt imaging, which the authors describe as one of the most effective means of reducing the radiation dose for children. Morris Panner, Forbes, 4 May 2021 Operating at voltages of 300 kilovolts, more than 2500 times stronger than electricity from a U.S. wall socket, the machine requires a bulky transformer and thick, heavily insulated cabling. Eric Hand, Science | AAAS, 23 Jan. 2020 For safety and other reasons, third-rail systems typically operate at 750 volts DC, a much lower voltage than overhead lines, which in Britain run at 25 kilovolts AC.The Economist, 21 Nov. 2019 Motors and Propellers Motors are rated in kilovolts, or rpm generated per volt. Trevor Bauer, Popular Mechanics, 23 Aug. 2018 However, in a thunderstorm those levels can rise up to 10 kilovolts per meter, exponentially larger. David Grossman, Popular Mechanics, 5 July 2018 And before the electricity leaves the tower, a transformer inside the nacelle steps it up from 690 volts to 34.5 kilovolts. Matt Allyn, Popular Mechanics, 6 Feb. 2018 To get power to Foxconn, ATC would add a second 345 kilovolt transmission circuit along 12 miles of existing lines from Pleasant Prairie north to Mount Pleasant. Rick Romell, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 12 Dec. 2017 The substation, which would convert a 33-kilovolt current to a lower distribution voltage of 12 kilovolts , is needed to meet the growing power demand in the area, according to Edison. Tomoya Shimura, Orange County Register, 11 Jan. 2017 See More
Word History
Etymology
International Scientific Vocabulary
First Known Use
circa 1898, in the meaning defined above
Medical Definition
kilovolt
noun
ki·lo·volt -ˌvōlt
: a unit of potential difference equal to 1000 volts