How does a transformer work?

A transformer operates based on the principle of electromagnetic induction, which is the process of generating electrical voltage from a magnetic field. It consists of two coils of wire, known as the primary and secondary windings, wrapped around a core made of magnetic material. When an alternating current passes through the primary winding, it creates a magnetic field that induces a voltage in the secondary winding.

The key aspect of a transformer is its ability to change voltages while maintaining the same amount of power (minus losses due to heat and other factors). By adjusting the number of turns of wire in the primary and secondary coils, a transformer can either step up (increase) or step down (decrease) the voltage of the electrical supply efficiently.

Understanding this function is crucial in power distribution, as high voltages are often transmitted over long distances to reduce energy loss, and transformers are used to adjust these voltages for safe usage in homes and businesses. This principle is fundamental to the operation of most electrical systems, emphasizing the importance of transformers in modern electrical engineering.