What is a transformer?

Study for the Dental Radiology Foundation Chain and Physics Test. Enhance your skills with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Prepare for your success!

Multiple Choice

What is a transformer?

A transformer changes voltage levels using electromagnetic induction between windings on a magnetic core. When alternating current flows in the primary winding, it creates a changing magnetic flux that induces a voltage in the secondary winding. The voltages relate to the turns ratio: more turns on the secondary produce a higher voltage (step-up), fewer turns produce a lower voltage (step-down). In dental radiography, transformers in the x-ray machine raise the incoming line voltage to the kilovolt range needed to accelerate electrons in the x-ray tube. They aren’t energy storage devices, nor do they rectify AC to DC or act as switches. Those roles belong to other components.

A transformer changes voltage levels using electromagnetic induction between windings on a magnetic core. When alternating current flows in the primary winding, it creates a changing magnetic flux that induces a voltage in the secondary winding. The voltages relate to the turns ratio: more turns on the secondary produce a higher voltage (step-up), fewer turns produce a lower voltage (step-down). In dental radiography, transformers in the x-ray machine raise the incoming line voltage to the kilovolt range needed to accelerate electrons in the x-ray tube. They aren’t energy storage devices, nor do they rectify AC to DC or act as switches. Those roles belong to other components.

More practice questions