Explain the working principle of an electric generator. What energy conversion takes place? How does it differ from an electric motor?

Question

Accepted Answer

ELECTRIC GENERATOR: An electric generator converts MECHANICAL ENERGY into ELECTRICAL ENERGY, based on Faraday's Law of Electromagnetic Induction. WORKING: A rectangular coil of wire is placed between the poles of a strong magnet. When the coil is rotated mechanically (by a turbine, engine, or water wheel), the magnetic flux through the coil CHANGES continuously. By Faraday's Law, this changing flux INDUCES an EMF (voltage) in the coil. This induced EMF drives a current through the external circuit. As the coil rotates, the direction of current reverses twice per rotation → ALTERNATING CURRENT (AC) is produced. ENERGY CONVERSION: Mechanical energy (rotation) → Electrical energy. Used in: power stations (steam turbines driven by coal/nuclear heat), hydroelectric plants (water turns turbines), wind turbines. DIFFERENCE FROM MOTOR: MOTOR converts ELECTRICAL to MECHANICAL energy (takes electricity → produces rotation). GENERATOR converts MECHANICAL to ELECTRICAL energy (takes rotation → produces electricity). Mechanically, their structures are similar — a motor run in reverse acts as a generator.

Practice — Electromagnetism

Sign in to save attempts to your dashboard and track your accuracy over time

Find a verified tutor

Join a live course

Browse coaching centres

About

Categories

Support

Documentation

Get Study Tips & Updates

Download Our App

Download for iOS

Download for Android

Popular Cities