A transformer is an electrical device used to transfer electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction. It typically consists of two or more coils of insulated wire wound around a core made of ferromagnetic material. The primary coil is connected to a source of alternating current (AC), which generates a varying magnetic field in the core. This varying magnetic field induces an alternating electromotive force (emf) or voltage in the secondary coil, allowing for the transformation of voltage levels and currents while maintaining power conservation principles.
In short, a transformer is a device that uses electromagnetic induction to transfer electrical energy between circuits. It consists of coils wound around a core, where the primary coil induces a voltage in the secondary coil through a changing magnetic field. This allows transformers to change the voltage level of AC electricity while conserving the total power in the process.
A transformer’s primary function is to change the voltage levels of alternating current (AC) electricity. It accomplishes this by electromagnetic induction, where the primary coil connected to the input voltage source creates a magnetic field in the core. This magnetic field induces a voltage in the secondary coil, which is connected to the output circuit. By varying the number of turns in the coils, transformers can step up (increase) or step down (decrease) the voltage level between the input and output circuits while maintaining electrical isolation and power conservation.
A transformer is often simply referred to as a “transformer.” Its primary purpose is to transfer electrical energy efficiently from one circuit to another by means of electromagnetic induction. Transformers are crucial in power distribution systems, allowing electricity to be transmitted over long distances at high voltages and then stepped down to lower voltages suitable for consumer use. They are also used in various electronic devices to provide different voltage levels needed for operation.
Transformers operate based on the principle of electromagnetic induction. When an alternating current (AC) flows through the primary coil wound around a magnetic core, it creates a changing magnetic field in the core. This changing magnetic field induces a voltage in the secondary coil through electromagnetic induction. The voltage induced in the secondary coil depends on the ratio of the number of turns in the primary and secondary coils. As a result, transformers can step up or step down the voltage level between the primary and secondary circuits while transferring electrical power efficiently with minimal losses. This process allows transformers to play a critical role in electricity distribution, voltage regulation, and electrical isolation in various applications.