Electricity

Then the transformer was invented, the first electric lines and networks were set up, dynamos and induction motors were designed.
Since the beginning of the 20-th century the successful development of electricity has begun throughout the industrial world. The consumption of electricity has doubled every ten years.
Today consumption of electricity per capita is an indicator of the state of development and economic health of a nation.
Electricity has replaced other sources of energy as it has been realized that it offers improved service and reduced cost.
One of the greatest advantages of electricity is that it is clean, easily regulated and generates no by-products. Applications of electricity now cover all fields of human activity. Truly electricity provides mankind with the energy of the future.
Notes to the Text
1. transmission shafts, gear wheels, belts and pulleys - трансмиссионные валы, зубчатые колёса, ремни и блоки
2. time and labour saving appliances - электроприборы, экономящие время и труд
3. induction motors - индукционные моторы
4. per capita - на душу населения
5. by-products - побочные продукты
6. truly - поистине
Task 2. Now you should match questions with the answers using information from the text.
1. What is electricity?
2. What are the sources of electricity?
3. What properties of electricity have made it widely used?
4. What are the advantages of electricity?
5. What are home uses of electricity?
a) Lighting, heating, various time and labour saving appliances, radio, television, video and others.
b) It is a source of electric power used in everyday life and industry.
c) Electrostatics and electromagnetism.
d) Clearness, easy regulation, no