The turns ratio in a transformer represents the relationship between the number of turns in the primary winding and the number of turns in the secondary winding. This ratio is fundamental in determining the voltage and current transformation capabilities of the device. For instance, if a transformer has a primary winding with 100 turns and a secondary winding with 10 turns, the ratio is 10:1. This indicates that the secondary voltage will be approximately one-tenth of the primary voltage, assuming ideal conditions.
Understanding the turns ratio is critical for various applications, including power distribution, voltage regulation, and impedance matching. A properly selected ratio ensures efficient energy transfer and protects connected equipment from over- or under-voltage conditions. Historically, precise determination of this ratio has been essential in optimizing transformer design for specific electrical systems, contributing to the reliability and performance of electrical grids and electronic devices.