FCC Exam Question: 6A312

If a 500 Hz transformer is connected to a 60 Hz source of the same voltage:

A. The primary would draw excessive current
B. The transformer would overheat
C. The primary might burn out
D. All of the above
Correct Answer: D

Explanation: A transformer's inductive reactance ($X_L = 2\pi f L$) is directly proportional to the applied frequency. When a transformer designed for 500 Hz is connected to a 60 Hz source of the same voltage, the frequency is significantly reduced. This drastic reduction in frequency (from 500 Hz to 60 Hz) causes the inductive reactance of the primary winding to drop substantially. With much lower reactance, the primary winding presents very little opposition to the current flow at the applied voltage. This results in the primary drawing an excessively high current, far beyond its design limits. This excessive current leads to several problems: * **Excessive current draw (A):** The lower reactance allows much more current to flow than intended. * **Overheating (B):** High current causes significant power dissipation (I²R losses) in the windings, leading to severe overheating of both the windings and the core. * **Burn out (C):** Prolonged overheating can melt the insulation and conductors of the primary winding, causing it to burn out and fail. Therefore, all the listed consequences are likely to occur, making "All of the above" the correct answer.

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Includes Elements 1, 3, 6, 7R, 8, and 9.