What principle does a transformer operate on?

A transformer operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction. This principle involves the generation of an electromotive force (EMF) in a coil of wire when it is exposed to a changing magnetic field. In the case of a transformer, it consists of two coils of wire wound around a magnetic core. When an alternating current flows through the primary coil, it creates a changing magnetic field within the core. This changing magnetic field induces a voltage in the secondary coil according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction.

By varying the number of turns in the primary and secondary coils, a transformer can either step up or step down the voltage, thus enabling efficient power transmission over long distances. This operating principle is fundamental to how transformers function in electrical systems, making them essential for voltage regulation in power distribution networks.