Connecting a step-up transformer backward

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a step-up transformer that is allegedly wired backward, involving an inner and outer coil configuration. The problem context includes the implications of connecting these coils to a signal generator and the potential consequences of this setup, particularly concerning voltage and current behavior.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the implications of connecting a step-up transformer in reverse, questioning the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in the coils. There is also a discussion about the potential damage to the signal generator and the need for a clearer understanding of the connections involved.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered hypotheses regarding the behavior of the transformer when wired backward, while others seek clarification on the setup and its implications. The conversation is ongoing, with multiple interpretations being considered, particularly regarding the voltage output and the effect on the signal generator.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the specific resistances of the inner and outer coils, which may influence the discussion about current and voltage ratios. There is also mention of a diagram that could aid in understanding the problem, highlighting the importance of visual context in this discussion.

Alameda
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Homework Statement
Suppose the inner and outer solenoids are used as the primary and secondary coils respectively, and the inner solenoid is connected to the Output Ports of the signal generator on 850 interface as shown in figure 2. If the signal amplitude from the signal generator on 850 interface is set to 10V, the 850 interface will be crashed. Why? (hint: resistances of inner is 0.2 and outer is 77 ohms)
Relevant Equations
Vp> Vs step up transformer
Vs
I deduced that this is a step-up transformer wired backward because of the number of turns in each coil. The inner coil has a less number of terms and by the problem's wording, the inner coil is the primary coil. I'm not sure what would actually happen, a hypothesis (that I am not confident on) would be that the current, which is proportional to the resistance of each coil, needs more current when traveling from the outer coil to the inner coil?
 
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Vs< Vp step down transformer
 
Alameda said:
Homework Statement:: Suppose the inner and outer solenoids are used as the primary and secondary coils respectively, and the inner solenoid is connected to the Output Ports of the signal generator on 850 interface as shown in figure 2. If the signal amplitude from the signal generator on 850 interface is set to 10V, the 850 interface will be crashed. Why? (hint: resistances of inner is 0.2 and outer is 77 ohms)
Relevant Equations:: Vp> Vs step up transformer
Vs

I deduced that this is a step-up transformer wired backward because of the number of turns in each coil. The inner coil has a less number of terms and by the problem's wording, the inner coil is the primary coil. I'm not sure what would actually happen, a hypothesis (that I am not confident on) would be that the current, which is proportional to the resistance of each coil, needs more current when traveling from the outer coil to the inner coil?
Welcome to PhysicsForums. :smile:

Is there a drawing that goes with this question? It's difficult for me to decode what is being hooked to what, especially if the problem says that the signal generator will be damaged. The signal generator is driving one coil of a transformer, and the other coil is open-circuited?

You can use the "Attach files" link at the bottom of the Edit window to upload a JPEG or PDF image of the problem diagram...
 
All that was given was this, there is an inner coil and an outer coil. I got the machine picture to make things more clear.
 

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the inner coil goes into the outer coil, in the apparatus you can only see the outer coil because the inner coil is inside
 
Ah, I understand now. Yeah, if you put 10Vpp into the smaller coil, the step-up-effect will generate a large output voltage. It sounds like you are using the same instrument to drive one coil and observe the other coil, right?

If the same (gauge) wire is used to wind the primary and secondary coils, you can estimate the ratio ##\frac{N_p}{N_s}## from the two resistances, which you are given. Can you say why that is true?

https://circuitglobe.com/step-up-and-step-down-transformers.html

1602880291766.png
 

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