Which statement accurately describes a step-down transformer?

A step-down transformer is designed to reduce the voltage of an alternating current (AC) while increasing the current. This function is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction, where the transformer consists of two coils of wire—primary and secondary—around a core.

In a step-down transformer, the number of turns of wire in the secondary coil is less than that in the primary coil. When AC voltage is applied to the primary coil, a magnetic field is created that induces a voltage in the secondary coil. Because the secondary coil has fewer turns, the voltage is reduced compared to the primary input.

According to the law of conservation of energy, if the voltage decreases, the current must correspondingly increase in order to maintain the same power level (ignoring losses). This means that for a step-down transformer, while the voltage is decreased, the current is increased. This characteristic allows transformers to be used in electrical distribution systems, where high voltages are reduced for safe consumption in homes and businesses.