The current a transformer can handle is inversely proportional to what?

A transformer’s ability to handle current is fundamentally related to its design and the principles of electromagnetic induction, particularly the turns ratio. The correct answer highlights that the current a transformer can handle is inversely proportional to the number of turns in the winding.

In a transformer, when the number of turns in the primary winding increases, the voltage induced per turn also increases. This means that if the voltage is kept constant, an increase in the number of turns results in a decrease in the amount of current the transformer can safely handle. This relationship is due to the nature of how transformers operate under the principles of Faraday's Law of Electromagnetic Induction, which states that the induced voltage is directly proportional to the rate of change of magnetic flux and the number of turns in the coil.

Thus, if the transformer has more turns on either the primary or secondary side, it can generate higher voltage, and consequently, the current capacity decreases. This is essential for preventing overheating and ensuring the transformer operates within its design limits.

Understanding how the turns ratio affects current handling capacity is crucial for correctly sizing transformers and ensuring safe and efficient operation in electrical systems.