A transformer is a special electrical device used to **change the voltage** of an alternating current (AC) in a circuit. It works based on the principle of electromagnetic induction.
The main purpose of a transformer is to:
1. **Step Up Voltage**: Increase the voltage from a lower level to a higher level. For example, a power station uses a transformer to step up the voltage for efficient transmission over long distances. Higher voltage means lower current, which reduces energy losses.
2. **Step Down Voltage**: Decrease the voltage from a higher level to a lower level. This is commonly used to bring the voltage down to a safe level for use in homes and businesses.
### Why is this important?
- **Efficient Transmission**: High voltage and low current reduce energy loss when electricity is transmitted over long distances. Once it reaches the destination, transformers step down the voltage to levels suitable for everyday use.
- **Safety**: In homes, devices like transformers step down the high voltage from power lines to a safer, usable level (for example, from 11,000 volts down to 230 volts).
In summary, a transformer helps **control the voltage** and **make electricity usable** in different situations, ensuring efficiency and safety in electrical systems.