English National Curriculum - Science
Mission Objectives
Describe the difference between step-up and step-down transformers and explain their uses in real-world applications
Explain what a transformer does and how they work
Explain how the ratio of the potential difference in the primary coil and secondary coils of a transformer is related to the ratio of turns of wire in the primary and secondary coils
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Words and meanings to learn
primary coil
the coil in a transformer where the alternating current is first applied, producing a magnetic field in the iron core
transformer
a device that uses electromagnetic induction to change the size of an alternating potential difference; it consists of a primary coil, a secondary coil and an iron core
iron core
a soft iron structure in a transformer that links the primary and secondary coils, focusing and strengthening the magnetic field for efficient energy transfer
induced potential difference
a voltage generated in a conductor when it is exposed to a changing magnetic field, as in a transformer or generator
secondary coil
the coil in a transformer where the induced potential difference is generated, transferring energy to the external circuit
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Transformers practical
Transformer core coils of different numbers of coils (it helps if these scale up in a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio), voltmeters, power packs and wires.
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Mission assignment film
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