What is one method used to mitigate the effects of skin effect and eddy currents?

Using stranded cable is an effective method for mitigating the effects of skin effect and eddy currents. Skin effect refers to the tendency of alternating current (AC) to distribute itself unevenly in a conductor, with the majority of the current flowing near the surface. This is particularly problematic in solid conductors, as it reduces the effective cross-sectional area available for current flow and can lead to increased resistance and heating.

Stranded cable, which consists of multiple smaller wire strands twisted together, increases the total surface area available for current flow. This design minimizes the impact of skin effect because it allows more current to utilize the surface area of the individual strands rather than being confined to the surface of a solid conductor. Additionally, the smaller individual strands can accommodate higher frequencies better than a solid conductor, further reducing the eddy currents that might be induced in the material.

The other methods, such as using solid copper wire or increasing the circuit voltage, do not address the underlying issues related to skin effect and eddy currents directly. Reducing circuit frequency might help mitigate eddy currents, but it does not resolve the limitations of current distribution within the conductors. Thus, using stranded cable stands out as a practical solution in this context.