Amperage the same in Series Circuits?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of current in series circuits and the operation of transformers, particularly how transformers can reduce current while increasing voltage. The scope includes conceptual understanding of electrical circuits and transformers.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question how a transformer can reduce current while increasing voltage if current is always the same in a series circuit.
  • One participant emphasizes that a transformer is not a series circuit, noting that the primary and secondary loops are not connected, and that electric charge is conserved despite differing currents.
  • Another participant mentions that transformers operate based on magnetic coupling and suggests that Lenz's law is relevant to understanding their function.
  • Participants are encouraged to provide links to their research and ask specific questions to further clarify their understanding of transformer operation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between series circuits and transformers, with some clarifying that transformers do not operate as series circuits, while others seek to understand the implications of current and voltage changes in this context. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the initial question posed.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the assumptions made about series circuits and transformers, as well as the dependence on specific definitions of current and voltage in different circuit configurations.

kkorcaleb
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If current is always the same in a series circuit then how is a transformer able to make the current smaller when it increases the voltage? is this just an exception since with the voltage being higher the same amount of power is being provided?
 
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kkorcaleb said:
If current is always the same in a series circuit then how is a transformer able to make the current smaller when it increases the voltage? is this just an exception since with the voltage being higher the same amount of power is being provided?

Welcome to the PF.

What reading have you been doing about how transformers work? Can you post links to your research so far, and ask specific questions about your reading? The concepts of flux coupling and turns ratio are key to answering your own question... :smile:
 
kkorcaleb said:
If current is always the same in a series circuit then how is a transformer able to make the current smaller when it increases the voltage? is this just an exception since with the voltage being higher the same amount of power is being provided?

A transformer is not a series circuit. The primary loop isn't connected at all with the secondary loop. All the current that goes into the primary loop comes out of the primary loop again, and the same goes for the secondary loop.Electric charge is conserved, even if the currents in the primary and secondary loops are different.
 
kkorcaleb said:
If current is always the same in a series circuit then how is a transformer able to make the current smaller when it increases the voltage? is this just an exception since with the voltage being higher the same amount of power is being provided?
In a transformer, primary and secondary are 'magnetically' coupled. So, its not a series electrical circuit. Lenz's law will help you understand the basic working principle of the transformer. Power flow mechanism from primary to secondary will give you an explanation for stepping up and stepping down of the voltages and currents.
 
That makes more sense thank you very much
 

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