How do extension cables or power strips supply power for 3 plugs if they’re only plugged into 1 outlet?

Question

How do extension cables or power strips supply power for 3 plugs if they’re only plugged into 1 outlet?

In: 35

Answer 1

OK, the actual ELI 5 answer.

Imagine that electricity is flowing like water in the wires. Theres only room for so much water flow, but even a third of that flow is way more than enough for a device that consumes little power, like a desk lamp. If you plug several power tools in, they might have a problem (depends on area, the powerboard, and the appliances).

I have sometimes shorted my kitchen one by running a kettle, the fridge and a convection stovetop all at once. It can handle two, but not all three. If I were to run a light, the fridge and the kettle, it wouuld be fine, as the light uses little power, and the convection top a lot.