The main causes of energy loss in transformers are(A) Hysteresis loss…

The correct answer is Option (2) → (A), (B) and (C) only

A real transformer is not perfectly efficient. Energy is lost in the core and through imperfect linking of the coils.

(A) Hysteresis loss — Correct. The core is magnetised and demagnetised every cycle, and the area of the hysteresis loop is lost as heat.

(B) Flux leakage — Correct. Not all the flux of the primary links the secondary, so some of the energy is lost.

(C) Eddy current — Correct. The changing flux induces currents in the iron core, which heat it. A laminated core reduces this loss.

(D) Damping — Incorrect. Damping is the loss of energy of an oscillating mechanical or electrical system; it is not a loss in a transformer.

NCERT (2026-27):
Transformers – “… But in actual transformers, small energy losses do occur due to the following reasons: (i) Flux Leakage: There is always some flux leakage; that is, not all of the flux due to primary passes through the secondary due to poor design of the core or the air gaps in the core.”

Transformers – “… (iii) Eddy currents: The alternating magnetic flux induces eddy currents in the iron core and causes heating.”

Transformers – “… (iv) Hysteresis: The magnetisation of the core is repeatedly reversed by the alternating magnetic field. The resulting expenditure of energy in the core appears as heat and is kept to a minimum by using a magnetic material which has a low hysteresis loss.”