What determines the output voltage of a transformer?

The output voltage of a transformer is fundamentally determined by the turns ratio, which is the ratio of the number of turns of wire on the primary winding to the number of turns on the secondary winding. This relationship can be mathematically expressed using the formula:

[ V_s / V_p = N_s / N_p ]

where ( V_s ) is the secondary voltage, ( V_p ) is the primary voltage, ( N_s ) is the number of turns on the secondary coil, and ( N_p ) is the number of turns on the primary coil. This means that if the turns ratio increases, the output voltage will increase proportionally, and vice versa.

Other factors, such as the frequency of the AC source, the physical size of the transformer, and the material of the core, can have indirect effects on the performance and efficiency of the transformer, but they do not directly dictate the output voltage. The frequency may influence losses and design, while the core material affects magnetic properties and efficiency, and the physical size can impact power handling. However, the crucial determining factor for the output voltage remains the turns ratio.