What defines an isolation transformer?

An isolation transformer is primarily defined by its ability to provide electrical isolation between the input and output windings. This characteristic is crucial in reducing the risk of electrical shock, enhancing safety for both operators and equipment. The isolation minimizes the chance of a fault on the output side impacting the input side and vice versa, allowing for safer operations in sensitive environments.

The isolation feature also helps in mitigating noise and providing a clean power source, making it advantageous for applications where signal integrity is paramount, such as in audio and instrumentation setups.

While the other options mention concepts related to transformers, they do not accurately define what makes an isolation transformer distinctive. For example, the use of multiple windings to increase voltage pertains more to step-up transformers rather than isolation transformers. Low efficiency ratings do not specifically characterize isolation transformers, as they can vary in efficiency similar to other transformer types. Additionally, isolation transformers are not restricted to high-power applications; they are utilized across a range of power levels, making them versatile in various electrical scenarios.