What does the symbol 'N' represent in the transformer output voltage formula?

In the context of transformer output voltage formulas, the symbol 'N' represents the number of turns of the coil. This concept is foundational in electromagnetism and electrical engineering, particularly in the operation of transformers.

Transformers operate on the principle of electromagnetic induction, where the voltage induced in the secondary coil is proportional to the ratio of the number of turns in the secondary coil (N₂) to the number of turns in the primary coil (N₁). The transformer output voltage (V₂) can be expressed with the equation:

[

\frac{V₂}{V₁} = \frac{N₂}{N₁}

]

where V₁ is the input voltage and V₂ is the output voltage. This relationship indicates that if you increase the number of turns in the secondary coil compared to the primary, the output voltage will also increase proportionally, assuming the transformer is ideal.

Understanding the significance of the number of turns is crucial for properly designing and selecting transformers for specific applications in electrical systems. It highlights how transformers can step up or step down voltages, which is vital in power distribution and electrical engineering.