What do transformers do with alternating current?

Transformers are electrical devices that operate on alternating current (AC) to change the potential difference, or voltage, of the current in a circuit. They achieve this by utilizing electromagnetic induction, where an alternating current in one coil creates a changing magnetic field that induces a voltage in another coil nearby.

When the primary coil receives AC, the changing magnetic field generated induces a higher or lower voltage in the secondary coil depending on the ratio of turns between the two coils. This process allows transformers to either step up (increase) or step down (decrease) the voltage, which is essential for efficiently transmitting electricity over long distances or providing the appropriate voltage for various devices.