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A device in the ballast that transforms electric current from one voltage to another.
In electrical engineering, a transformer is a passive component that transfers electrical energy from one electrical circuit to another circuit, or multiple circuits. A varying current in any coil of the transformer produces a varying magnetic flux in the transformer's core, which induces a varying electromotive force (EMF) across any other coils wound around the same core. Electrical energy can be transferred between separate coils without a metallic (conductive) connection between the two circuits. Faraday's law of induction, discovered in 1831, describes the induced voltage effect in any coil due to a changing magnetic flux encircled by the coil.
![]() ![]() An O-core transformer consisting of two coils of copper wire wrapped around a magnetic core | |
Component type | Passive |
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Working principle | Electromagnetic induction |
Inventor | Michael Faraday |
Invention year | 1831 |
Electronic symbol | |
Transformers are used to change AC voltage levels, such transformers being termed step-up or step-down type to increase or decrease voltage level, respectively. Transformers can also be used to provide galvanic isolation between circuits as well as to couple stages of signal-processing circuits. Since the invention of the first constant-potential transformer in 1885, transformers have become essential for the transmission, distribution, and utilization of alternating current electric power. A wide range of transformer designs is encountered in electronic and electric power applications. Transformers range in size from RF transformers less than a cubic centimeter in volume, to units weighing hundreds of tons used to interconnect the power grid.
English
Alternative forms
- tformer, t-former (shortening)
- transformator (archaic)
Etymology
From transform + -er.
Pronunciation
- (General American) IPA(key): /tɹænsˈfɔɹmɚ/
- (Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /tɹænsˈfɔːmə/, /tɹɑːnsˈfɔːmə/
- Hyphenation: trans‧form‧er
Noun
transformer (plural transformers)
- Something that transforms, changing its own or another thing's shape.