In its simplest form, a transformer consists of how many components?

• A. Two
• B. Four
• C. Three
• D. Five

Answer: (C)

A transformer, in its simplest form, has three essential parts: a magnetic core, a primary winding, and a secondary winding. The core provides a low-reluctance path for the changing magnetic flux generated by the input current in the primary winding. The secondary winding then experiences that changing flux and delivers the output voltage to the load. These three pieces work together to transfer energy efficiently through mutual induction; without the core or without a second winding, you wouldn’t have a functioning transformer.