What is the function of a transformer in electricity distribution?

The function of a transformer in electricity distribution is to change voltage levels to ensure efficient power transmission. This is a crucial aspect of power distribution systems. By stepping up voltage for long-distance transmission, transformers reduce energy losses that occur due to resistance in the wires. A higher voltage allows the same amount of power to be transmitted with lower current, which minimizes heat generation and energy waste.

When electricity needs to be delivered to end-users, transformers are then used to step down the voltage to safer, usable levels for homes and businesses. This two-step process of stepping up and stepping down voltage is fundamental to maintaining efficiency and safety in the distribution of electrical power.

Other options describe various roles that are not performed by transformers. For example, while storing electrical energy is essential in some systems, this is typically done with batteries or capacitors, not transformers. Converting direct current to alternating current relates to devices known as inverters, and regulating electrical flow is functionally handled by devices like circuit breakers or voltage regulators, rather than transformers directly.