CSLB C-10 Electrical ContractorElectrical Theory and CalculationsEasy

A transformer has a primary winding with 600 turns and a secondary winding with 150 turns. If the primary voltage is 480V, what is the approximate secondary voltage?

  1. A960V
  2. B240V
  3. C120V
  4. D480V
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. 120V

The voltage ratio of a transformer is directly proportional to the turns ratio: Vp/Vs = Np/Ns. Therefore, Vs = Vp × (Ns/Np) = 480V × (150 turns / 600 turns) = 480V × 0.25 = 120V.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. This would be the result if the transformer was a step-up transformer with the inverse turns ratio.
  • B. This would imply a 2:1 turns ratio, not 4:1.
  • D. This would mean a 1:1 turns ratio, no voltage transformation.

Transformer Voltage Ratio

The ratio of primary voltage to secondary voltage in a transformer is equal to the ratio of primary turns to secondary turns (Vp/Vs = Np/Ns).

  • Directly proportional relationship.
  • Used to calculate unknown voltage or turns.
  • Assumes an ideal transformer for simplicity.

Memory trick: Voltages and Turns are Direct; Currents are Inverse.

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