When power is applied to the primary of a transformer, what does it induce in the secondary?

When power is applied to the primary of a transformer, it creates a magnetic field that induces a voltage in the secondary winding. This process is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction, which states that a change in the magnetic field within a coil of wire can induce a voltage in a nearby coil.

In this case, the voltage induced in the secondary winding depends on the turns ratio between the primary and secondary coils. If the secondary has more turns than the primary, the induced voltage will be greater than the primary voltage, and if it has fewer turns, the induced voltage will be lower. This relationship allows transformers to effectively step up or step down voltage levels based on their design and application.

While current may flow in the secondary circuit once the voltage is induced and a load is connected, the fundamental action that occurs due to the application of power to the primary winding is the induction of voltage in the secondary winding. Therefore, the correct response identifies the primary mechanism of voltage induction as the key concept.