What are the core components of a transformer?

The core components of a transformer are the primary coil, secondary coil, and the iron core.

A transformer is a device that changes the voltage of an alternating current (AC) supply. The primary coil is the part of the transformer where the input voltage is applied. It is made up of a coil of wire, usually copper, which is wound around one side of the iron core. When an AC voltage is applied to the primary coil, it creates a changing magnetic field in the iron core.

The secondary coil is where the transformed voltage is taken from. Like the primary coil, it is also made of a coil of wire, and it is wound around the other side of the iron core. The changing magnetic field in the iron core induces a voltage in the secondary coil. The number of turns in the primary and secondary coils determines whether the voltage is stepped up (increased) or stepped down (decreased).

The iron core is a crucial part of the transformer. It is made of laminated iron sheets to reduce energy losses due to eddy currents. The iron core serves to channel the magnetic field created by the primary coil through the secondary coil, ensuring efficient transfer of energy between the coils. The core's high magnetic permeability allows it to easily support the magnetic field, making the transformer more efficient.

In summary, the primary coil receives the input voltage, the secondary coil provides the output voltage, and the iron core facilitates the efficient transfer of energy between the coils. Understanding these components helps in grasping how transformers work to change voltage levels in electrical circuits.