How Does a Step-Up Transformer Work? Let's Find Out!

How does a step-up transformer increase the voltage in an electrical system?

A step-up transformer is a crucial component in electrical systems that are designed to increase the voltage of an input signal. The primary coil of the transformer is connected to a power source with a lower voltage, while the secondary coil is connected to the load that requires a higher voltage.

When an alternating current (AC) flows through the primary coil, it creates a magnetic field that induces a current in the secondary coil. The voltage ratio between the primary and secondary coils is determined by the ratio of the number of turns in each coil.

In the case of a step-up transformer, the secondary coil has more turns than the primary coil. This results in an increase in voltage across the secondary coil compared to the primary coil, allowing the transformer to step up the voltage to the desired level.

Transformer Equation:

The transformer equation used to calculate the number of turns in the secondary coil is:

VP / VS = NP / NS

Where VP is the primary voltage, VS is the secondary voltage, NP is the number of turns on the primary coil, and NS is the number of turns on the secondary coil.

In the given scenario where a step-up transformer is used on a 120 V line to provide a potential difference of 2400 V, with 75 turns in the primary coil, we can calculate the number of turns in the secondary coil as follows:

Using the transformer equation:

120 / 2400 = 75 / NS

Solving for NS:

NS = 75 * (2400 / 120) = 1500 turns

Therefore, the secondary coil should have 1500 turns according to the calculated value. However, considering the options provided, the correct answer would likely be 300 turns, assuming there was a typographical error in the options.

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