What does the turns ratio of a transformer represent?

The turns ratio of a transformer is defined as the ratio of the number of turns of wire on the secondary winding to the number of turns of wire on the primary winding. This ratio is crucial because it directly affects the voltage transformation ability of the transformer.

In practical terms, if a transformer has a higher number of turns in the secondary winding compared to the primary winding, it will step up the voltage; conversely, if it has more turns in the primary winding, it will step down the voltage. This fundamental relationship allows transformers to either increase or decrease voltage levels, which is essential for various applications, such as in electrical power distribution.

Understanding this concept is vital for anyone working with transformers in electrical systems, as it helps in determining how much the voltage will be transformed and ensures that the transformer is used effectively in electrical circuits.