Design and use of transformers

A transformer is a device that can change the potential difference or voltage of an alternating current:

• a step-up transformer increases the voltage
• a step-down transformer reduces the voltage

Design and use of transformers

A basic transformer is made from two coils of wire, a primary coil from the alternating current (ac) input and a secondary coil leading to the ac output. The coils are not electrically connected. Instead, they are wound around an iron core. This is easily magnetised and can carry magnetic fields from the primary coil to the secondary coil.

Components of a transformer

When a transformer is working:

1. a primary voltage drives an alternating current through the primary coil
2. the primary coil current produces a magnetic field, which changes as the current changes
3. the iron core increases the strength of the magnetic field
4. the changing magnetic field induces a changing potential difference in the secondary coil
5. the induced potential difference produces an alternating current in the external circuit