Transformer loss accounting: With 120 W into the primary and 8.5 W lost to winding resistance, what output power is delivered to the load (neglect other losses)?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 111.5 W

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Practical transformers exhibit copper (I^2R) losses in windings and core losses. This question focuses on simple power balance when a single loss component is known, a common step in efficiency and thermal calculations.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Primary input power Pin = 120 W.
  • Winding copper loss Pcu = 8.5 W (given).
  • Neglect all other losses (e.g., core loss), so remaining power is transferred to the load.


Concept / Approach:
By conservation of power: Pout ≈ Pin - Losses. Here only one loss term is specified, so subtract it directly from the input power to estimate output power to the load terminals.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Compute Pout = Pin - Pcu = 120 - 8.5 = 111.5 W.Therefore, the load receives approximately 111.5 W.


Verification / Alternative check:
If we expressed efficiency η = Pout / Pin = 111.5 / 120 ≈ 92.9%, which is a plausible transformer efficiency figure depending on size and design.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 14.1 W or 0 W: Ignore the stated power flow and losses.
  • 1,020 W: Exceeds input power; violates conservation.
  • 118.5 W: Would imply only 1.5 W loss, contradicting the given 8.5 W.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Adding losses instead of subtracting from input power.
  • Confusing efficiency percentage with watts.


Final Answer:
111.5 W

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