Summary
Highlights
Transformers in the National Grid00:00:04
Transformers are crucial for the national grid. Electricity generated at large power stations is passed through step-up transformers, increasing the voltage to about 400,000 volts to minimize energy loss during transmission across the country. Once it reaches its destination, like a town, step-down transformers reduce the voltage to around 230 volts for safe use in homes.
Components of a Transformer00:01:07
A transformer consists of an iron core connecting a primary coil on one side to a secondary coil on the other. The key function of a transformer is to increase or decrease the voltage of electricity.
How a Transformer Works: Step-by-Step00:01:40
An alternating potential difference applied to the primary coil creates a current and an alternating magnetic field. This alternating magnetic field induces an alternating magnetic field in the iron core. Finally, the iron core's magnetic field induces a potential difference across the secondary coil, causing current to flow. The current is transferred through induced magnetic fields, not direct electrical conduction because the wires are insulated.
Step-Up vs. Step-Down Transformers00:03:20
The number of turns in the coils determines whether a transformer steps up or steps down the voltage. A step-up transformer has more turns in the secondary coil than the primary coil, increasing the voltage. Conversely, a step-down transformer has fewer turns in the secondary coil, decreasing the voltage.