Back to top

Step-up transformer, Meaning (SPM Physics)

A transformer with more turns on the secondary coil than the primary, which increases the alternating voltage.

  • Specialist SPM Physics tutoring
  • 5,000+ students helped
  • Experienced Physics teachers
  • Fully online 1-to-1, nationwide
  • Real 1-hour paid trial, from RM50/hr
  • Built on the official SPM syllabus
EnglishStep-up transformer
Bahasa MelayuTransformer injak naik
中文升压变压器

Definition

A transformer with more turns on the secondary coil than the primary, which increases the alternating voltage.

Electromagnetism

In exam terms

A step-up transformer has more turns on the secondary coil than on the primary coil (N_s > N_p), which increases the alternating voltage from primary to secondary. Voltage is measured in volts (V).

Because the turns ratio equals the voltage ratio, V_s / V_p = N_s / N_p, and in an ideal transformer power is conserved (V_p I_p = V_s I_s), a higher output voltage comes with a smaller output current. Example of correct use: A step-up transformer with 100 primary turns and 500 secondary turns raises 240 V to 1200 V. Step-up transformers are used at power stations to raise voltage for efficient transmission through the National Grid.

Do not confuse it with…

Do not confuse a step-up transformer with a step-down transformer. A step-up transformer has more secondary turns and raises the voltage; a step-down transformer has fewer secondary turns and lowers it.

The only structural difference is which coil has more turns.

In Paper 2 this is asked as state or calculate: state whether a transformer steps up or down from its turns, or calculate the output voltage. When answering, compare N_s with N_p first, then use the turns ratio to find the new voltage.

Source: DSKP KSSM Physics Form 4 and 5 (Versi English) (Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum (BPK), KPM)

Frequently asked questions

How can I tell a transformer is a step-up transformer?
It has more turns on the secondary coil than on the primary coil (N_s > N_p), so the output (secondary) voltage is higher than the input voltage.
If the voltage is stepped up, what happens to the current?
In an ideal transformer power is conserved (V_p I_p = V_s I_s), so a higher secondary voltage means a smaller secondary current.
Why are step-up transformers used at power stations?
They raise the transmission voltage, which lowers the current for the same power. A smaller current means less energy lost as heat in the cables, so transmission is more efficient.

Book a Trial Class

One-hour paid trial · Same-day reply · from RM50/hr

Book a Trial Class

One-hour paid trial · Same-day reply