What the difference between ballast and transformer?

Answer 1

A transformer changes the amperage and / or voltage. It literally "Transforms" electrical energy.

A ballast is like a capacitor. Think of a ballast as a short-term battery. It stores power then releases it as needed. A common example of a ballast is on fluorescent lights.

Initially, a fluorescent light needs a big blast of energy to excite the gas molecules into emitting photons (light). Then it only needs a small amount of energy to keep the gas molecules in an excited state. However, that power has to be of consistent amperage and voltage. The ballast is designed to do that.

The electrical ballast stores energy in the same way that a water ballast stores water for stability. Because the electrical ballast stores far more power than the device it regulates requires, it too provides a kind of electrical stability. That's why you often see a fluorescent light flicker or "lose stability" when the ballast starts to go bad.

A transformer transforms voltage and amperage up or down.

A ballast provides a stabile power supply.

Answer 2

A ballast is a device used in lighting fixtures to regulate the electrical current flow to the bulbs to ensure they operate efficiently. A transformer is a device that changes the voltage of an electrical current, either stepping it up or down, to match the requirements of the devices it powers. While both devices play a role in electrical systems, they have distinct functions and purposes.