Definition

1. Noun:
   • A device that increases voltage: A "step-up transformer" is a type of electrical transformer designed to increase the voltage of an alternating current (AC) from its input side to its output side. It operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction and has more turns of wire on its output coil (secondary winding) than on its input coil (primary winding).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The power plant uses a step-up transformer to increase voltage for efficient long-distance transmission.
  • To operate this equipment, you will need a step-up transformer to convert the 110V supply to 220V.

Advanced Usage

• In technical specifications: Often specified by its input-to-output voltage ratio.
  • The 1:10 step-up transformer is crucial for this experiment.
• In power distribution systems: A critical component for reducing energy loss during transmission.
  • Step-up transformers are located at generating stations before electricity enters the grid.

Variants and Related Words

• Transformer (n): The general device for changing AC voltage and current levels.
  • A transformer can either increase or decrease voltage.
• Step-down transformer (n): A transformer that decreases voltage.
  • A step-down transformer is used to reduce the mains voltage for household appliances.

Synonyms

• Voltage-increasing transformer: A direct descriptive synonym.
• Boost transformer: An informal term used in some contexts.

Related Phrases

• To step up voltage: The verbal phrase describing the transformer's function.
  • The primary role of this device is to step up voltage.

Notes

• Key Principle: The voltage increase is proportional to the ratio of the number of turns in the secondary coil to the number in the primary coil.
• Common Application: Essential in national power grids to raise voltage from thousands to hundreds of thousands of volts for transmission, minimizing resistive losses in power lines.

Noun

1. a transformer that increases voltage