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A linear transformer is a type of electrical device used to transfer electrical energy from one circuit to another through electromagnetic induction, while maintaining a linear relationship between the primary and secondary voltages and currents. This is in contrast to non-linear transformers, which may exhibit non-linear behavior due to core saturation or other effects.

In a linear transformer, the primary winding (the input side) is energized by an alternating current (AC) source. This creates a varying magnetic field around the transformer's core, which then induces a voltage in the secondary winding (the output side). The ratio of the number of turns in the primary winding to the number of turns in the secondary winding determines the transformation ratio, and hence, the voltage step-up or step-down from the primary to the secondary side.

Key features of a linear transformer include:

1. Consistent Voltage Transformation: The voltage transformation follows a simple ratio defined by the turns ratio (Np/Ns), where Np is the number of turns in the primary winding, and Ns is the number in the secondary. If Np > Ns, it's a step-down transformer; if Np < Ns, it's a step-up transformer.

2. Isolation: Transformers provide galvanic isolation between the primary and secondary circuits, meaning there is no direct electrical connection but power is still transferred through the magnetic field.

3. Efficiency: Linear transformers can be very efficient, often above 95%, when operated within their design parameters, such as avoiding core saturation and minimizing losses due to eddy currents, hysteresis, and leakage inductance.

4. Frequency Response: They typically operate within a specific frequency range, usually designed for power frequencies (50 Hz or 60 Hz), and can have a relatively flat response within that range.

5. Linearity: The term "linear" refers to the transformer's ability to maintain a constant ratio of voltage and current transformation across a wide range of operating conditions, assuming the transformer is not driven into saturation.

Linear transformers are widely used in power distribution systems, audio amplifiers, instrumentation, and various other electronic devices where efficient and isolated voltage transformation is required without introducing significant distortion.