Question

What are the applications of transformers ?

Answer 1

Hint: Before understanding the applications of the transformers, we should be clear about the construction and functioning of the transformers. The basic function of the transformers is to increase or decrease the AC voltage or current without wasting power.

Complete answer:
We know that power is generated at power stations and sent to residences and industries through power cables. Due to the resistance of the cables, there can be power loss in the wires in the form of heat generation.Hence, we need a component that can reduce the current, and thus to keep the power constant, increase the voltage or vice-versa without power loss.

Hence, we use the transformers that work on the principle of electromagnetic induction.
Transformers are classified in two categories – Step up transformer and step down transformerBy using the step-up transformer, we can increase the output voltage and decrease the output current. And by the use of a step-down transformer we can decrease the output voltage and increase the output current.

Transformers are basically used at both transmitting as well as receiving ends of the power transmission.Transformers are used at the power stations to reduce the transmission current and increase the voltage to reduce the power losses as heat in the power cables.Transformers are used at the distribution points to again reduce the high voltage to a safe domestic level voltage and increase the current that is transmitted to our houses.

Other than this the transformer can be used to change the value of capacitor, inductor or resistor in an AC circuit. It thus can act as an impedance transferring device.Transformers can also be used to prevent DC current from passing from one circuit to another.

Note: Other than the electrical use mentioned above, the transformers can also be used in the radio circuit, television circuit, telephone circuit, instrumentation circuit and control circuit etc. Even though we use the transformers for changing the voltage without power loss, there is always some inherent power loss due to hysteresis and eddy currents, which can be minimized by the use of laminated cores.