What prevents a transformer from acting as a short circuit?

A transformer operates based on the principles of electromagnetic induction, where alternating current in the primary winding creates a magnetic field that induces voltage in the secondary winding. In this context, counter voltage plays a crucial role in preventing the transformer from behaving like a short circuit.

When the transformer is energized, the core becomes magnetized, and this magnetization leads to the generation of a counter voltage in response to the applied voltage. This counter voltage opposes the source voltage and limits the current flowing through the primary winding. As a result, the transformer does not draw excessive current as it would in a short-circuit condition. This phenomenon is essential for the normal operation of the transformer and is critical to its design.

Understanding this mechanism helps in grasping why counter voltage is fundamental to transformer functionality, keeping it within safe operational limits and preventing damage that could be caused by short-circuit conditions.