Transformer Calculations
- The output potential difference (voltage) of a transformer depends on:
- The number of turns on the primary and secondary coils
- The input potential difference (voltage)
- It can be calculated using the equation:
- This equation can be written using symbols as follows:
- Where
- Vp = potential difference (voltage) across the primary coil in volts (V)
- Vs = potential difference (voltage) across the secondary coil in volts (V)
- np = number of turns on primary coil
- ns = number of turns on secondary coil
- The equation above can be flipped upside down to give:
- The equations above show that:
- The ratio of the potential differences across the primary and secondary coils of a transformer is equal to the ratio of the number of turns on each coil
Worked example
A transformer has 20 turns on the primary coil and 800 turns on the secondary coil. The input potential difference across the primary coil is 500 V.
a) Calculate the output potential difference
b) State what type of transformer this is
Answer
Part (a)
Step 1: List the known quantities
- Number of turns in primary coil, = 20
- Number of turns in secondary coil, = 800
- Voltage in primary coil, = 500 V
Step 2: Write the equation linking the output potential difference () to the known quantities
- There will be less rearranging to do if is on the top of the fraction
Step 3: Rearrange the equation to make the subject
Step 4: Substitute the known values into the equation
Part (b)
The secondary voltage is larger than the primary, therefore this is a step-up transformer
Examiner Tip
When you are using the transformer equation make sure you have used the same letter (p or s) in the numerators (top line) of the fraction and the same letter (p or s) in the denominators (bottom line) of the fraction.
There will be less rearranging to do in a calculation if the variable which you are trying to find is on the numerator (top line) of the fraction.
The individual loops of wire going around each side of the transformer should be referred to as turns and not coils.