A transformer is an electrical device that transfers electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction. It consists of two main components: primary winding and secondary winding.
Primary Winding: The primary winding is the coil of wire that receives the input voltage from the source, typically an AC power supply. When alternating current (AC) flows through the primary winding, it generates a changing magnetic field around the coil.
Secondary Winding: The secondary winding is another coil of wire wound around the same core as the primary winding. This winding is connected to the load or the device that requires the transformed output voltage. The changing magnetic field produced by the primary winding induces a voltage across the secondary winding, according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction.
The primary and secondary windings are wound around a common magnetic core, which is usually made of a material with high magnetic permeability, such as iron or a ferrite compound. This core enhances the efficiency of energy transfer by concentrating and directing the magnetic flux generated by the current in the windings.
The ratio of the number of turns in the primary winding to the number of turns in the secondary winding determines the voltage transformation ratio of the transformer. In an ideal transformer (neglecting losses), the ratio of the primary voltage to the secondary voltage is equal to the ratio of the number of turns in the primary winding to the number of turns in the secondary winding.
Transformers are fundamental in power distribution systems, allowing for efficient transmission of electricity at different voltage levels while minimizing energy losses. They are crucial for stepping up voltage for long-distance transmission and stepping down voltage for safe use in homes and businesses.