Question

A step-up transformer converts a low voltage into high voltage. Does it violate the principle of conservation of energy? Explain.

Hint:

- A step-up transformer increases voltage while decreasing current proportionally, ensuring that power remains conserved (ignoring losses).
- The power relation is: \[ P_s = P_p \Rightarrow V_s I_s = V_p I_p \] - The principle of conservation of energy is not violated because the total input and output power remain equal in an ideal transformer.
- Any apparent energy loss is due to eddy currents, hysteresis, and copper losses in practical transformers.

Answer 1

Conservation of Energy in Transformers
A step-up transformer increases the voltage but decreases the current proportionally, ensuring that the power remains constant (ignoring losses). The relationship is given by: \[ P_s = P_p \implies V_s I_s = V_p I_p. \] Since the power output is equal to the power input (in an ideal transformer), the principle of conservation of energy is not violated. Any apparent violation is due to energy losses in the transformer, such as eddy current, hysteresis, and copper losses.