A transformer is a static electrical device that transfers electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction.
1. Purpose of a Transformer:
The primary purpose is to "Step Up" (increase) or "Step Down" (decrease)
AC voltage levels while maintaining the same frequency. This is vital for efficient long-distance power transmission.
2. What stays Constant?
An ideal transformer is a constant-power and constant-frequency device.
• Power: $P_{in} \approx P_{out}$. If voltage increases, current must decrease to keep power constant.
• Frequency: The frequency of the output AC is identical to the input AC.
3. Summary of Function:
The transformer changes the "impedance" of the load and the "level of voltage/current," but it never changes the frequency or the total power (excluding minor losses). Therefore, changing the level of voltage is its most basic function.