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GCSE Physics · key term
A transformer for which the secondary potential difference is greater than the primary potential difference.
Used by AQA, Edexcel and OCR
Specification 4.2.4.3, 4.7.3.4 · Paper 1, Paper 2
A device that increases the potential difference of an alternating supply.
Revise: The National GridA step-up transformer near the power station increases the potential difference before electrical power enters the transmission cables. For approximately the same transmitted power, the current therefore decreases. The lower current produces less heating in the resistant cables.
Specification 13.6, 13.7P, 13.9, 13.11P · Paper 2
A transformer that produces an output voltage greater than its input voltage.
A device that increases an alternating potential difference.
A transformer that increases the alternating potential difference across its output coil.
Specification P4.2h, P8.2d, P8.2f · Paper 1 (Foundation), Paper 2 (Foundation), Paper 3 (Higher), Paper 4 (Higher)
A transformer in which the secondary potential difference is greater than the primary potential difference.
A transformer that produces a higher output potential difference than its input potential difference.
A transformer whose secondary coil has more turns than its primary coil, producing a higher secondary potential difference.
Paper 1, Paper 2
A transformer that increases the potential difference.
Revise: Methods of Generation and the National GridNear a power station, a step-up transformer raises the potential difference for long-distance transmission.
A transformer that increases the potential difference from its primary coil to its secondary coil.
A transformer with more turns on its secondary coil than on its primary coil, so its secondary potential difference is greater.
For an explanation of Grid efficiency, give the full chain: step-up transformer increases potential difference → for the same power, current decreases → heating in the cables decreases → less energy is wasted.
Do not say that transformers increase electrical power. A step-up transformer increases potential difference and decreases current; some energy is still lost during transmission.
State both the direction of change and the type of voltage: a step-up transformer makes the alternating output voltage greater than the input voltage; a step-down transformer makes it smaller.
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