ACCurrentandTransformers-LaSalleUniversity.docVIP

PHYSICS 202 SPRING 04 LAB 6 Transformers and AC to DC conversion Part 1. AC Peak and RMS. Transferring energy over large distances is best done using alternating current (AC) at high voltages. But most of the devices we will be interested in need direct current (DC) at relatively small voltages. One first reduces the voltage by using a transformer. A transformer changes the voltage and the current in such a way that the power is not significantly diminished. First let us build the circuit below which uses directly the voltage supplied by function generator. The voltmeter and ammeter must be put on their AC settings. Note the Frequency is set to 60 Hz. The voltage and current reading are not 10 V and 10 mA, respectively, because the 10 in the amplitude box represents the maximum value and the 7.07’s represent the root-mean-square (RMS) values, which are averaged over time. They differ from the maximum values by a factor 2-1/2. What are the meter readings for the above circuit if we choose the triangular wave instead of the sine wave? What are the meter readings for the above circuit if we choose the triangular wave instead of the sine wave? A slight revision of the circuit above is shown below. The circle with the + sign and sine wave (found under the Sources button, same as a battery) represents the AC supplied by a typical wall socket. Build this circuit. Remember to put the voltmeter and ammeter on their AC settings. Is the 120 V the peak value (like the amplitude above) or the RMS value (like the meters above)? Part 2. Reducing the voltage. The transformer lowers (or raises) an AC voltage without significant loss of power. A transformer consists of two separate circuits, the primary and the secondary. The AC in one circuit induces a magnetic field, and that magnetic field in turn induces a current (also alternating) in the second circuit. To enhance the magnetic field produced, the circuits surround an iron core. This is wh