Physics
Physics
Problem
A distribution transformer supplies an output power of at full load. At this load, its copper loss is and its core (iron) loss is . Determine the efficiency of the transformer at full load, correct to two significant figures.Intuitive explanation
Transformer efficiency is about how much of the input power actually makes it to the output—the rest gets wasted as heat in the copper windings and iron core. You'll find efficiency by comparing useful output power to total input power, where input equals output plus all losses. Since you know the output and both loss types, you can calculate what fraction of the input power is delivered usefully.
Intuitive explanation
Transformer efficiency is about how much of the input power actually makes it to the output—the rest gets wasted as heat in the copper windings and iron core. You'll find efficiency by comparing useful output power to total input power, where input equals output plus all losses. Since you know the output and both loss types, you can calculate what fraction of the input power is delivered usefully.