A transformer is an electrical device used to transfer electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction. It consists of two coils of wire known as windings, which are typically wound around a common core. The primary and secondary windings are two distinct coils in a transformer that play crucial roles in the energy transfer process.
Primary Winding:
The primary winding is the coil of wire in a transformer that receives the input electrical power. It is connected to the input voltage source, such as an AC power supply. When an alternating current (AC) flows through the primary winding, it generates a changing magnetic field in the transformer's core. This magnetic field, in turn, induces a voltage in the secondary winding through electromagnetic induction. The primary winding is responsible for initiating the energy transfer process in the transformer.
Secondary Winding:
The secondary winding is the coil of wire in a transformer where the output electrical power is generated. It is connected to the load or the device that requires electrical power. The changing magnetic field generated by the primary winding induces a voltage across the secondary winding, which leads to the flow of current in the secondary circuit. The secondary winding's turns ratio in relation to the primary winding determines the voltage and current levels in the secondary circuit. This enables the transformer to step up (increase) or step down (decrease) the voltage levels while maintaining the power conservation principle.
In summary, the primary winding receives the input power and generates a changing magnetic field, while the secondary winding receives this changing magnetic field and generates the output power. The ratio of turns between the primary and secondary windings determines the transformation ratio and the resulting voltage and current levels in the output circuit.