Which range of voltages is commonly found on ships?

The range of voltages commonly found on ships is indeed from a few volts to almost 15,000 volts. This wide voltage range accommodates various electrical systems aboard a ship, including low-voltage systems for control and instrumentation, medium-voltage systems for power distribution, and high-voltage systems used for propulsion and large electrical machinery.

Low-voltage systems (typically below 600 volts) power lighting and other general equipment, while medium-voltage systems are often used for large motors and generators, which can operate in the range of 1,000 to 15,000 volts. This flexibility in voltage levels is crucial for accommodating the diverse electrical needs of ship operations, from navigation and communication to propulsion and power generation.

The other options suggest voltage ranges that don't fully capture the operational requirements of a ship’s electrical systems. For instance, a limited range like 1 to 100 volts or 100 to 5,000 volts does not include the medium to high-voltage levels necessary for large power consumers on board. Similarly, suggesting a range up to 20,000 volts expands beyond typical shipboard applications. This underscores why the correct answer encompasses a broad spectrum up to almost 15,000 volts, aligning well with standard marine electrical practices.