What happens to ignition coil voltage as the coil charges?

As the ignition coil charges, the voltage indeed builds up to a high voltage. This process occurs when the coil is energized by the ignition system. When current flows through the primary winding of the ignition coil, it generates a magnetic field. As the current increases, the voltage across the coil rises due to the energy being stored in the magnetic field. When the ignition system interrupts the current flow, this magnetic field collapses, inducing a high voltage in the secondary winding which is used to create a spark at the spark plugs.

This build-up of voltage is critical for the ignition process, as it ensures sufficient energy is available to produce a spark strong enough to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s cylinders. Understanding this behavior of ignition coils is essential for technicians, as it directly impacts engine performance and efficiency.