Is it true that the dielectric strength of air is higher than that of oil?

The statement is indeed false because the dielectric strength of oil is generally higher than that of air. Dielectric strength refers to the maximum electric field that a material can withstand without experiencing breakdown (becoming conductive).

Oil, particularly when it is insulating oil designed for electrical applications, can withstand higher voltages compared to air. For instance, the dielectric strength of oil can range from 10 to 30 MV/m, while air typically has a dielectric strength of about 3 MV/m.

Factors such as pressure, temperature, and humidity can affect the dielectric strength of air, but under normal conditions, oil is a better insulator than air. This property of oil makes it a preferred choice in various electrical equipment for insulation purposes. Understanding these properties is crucial for applications in electrical engineering and ensuring safety in electrical systems.