Electric generator

Electric Generator

An Electric Generator (pronunciation: /ɪˈlɛktrɪk ˈdʒɛnəˌreɪtər/) is a device that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy for use in an external circuit. The source of mechanical energy may vary widely from a hand crank to an internal combustion engine.

Etymology

The term "Electric Generator" is derived from the Latin word "generare" which means "to create" and the Greek word "elektron" which means "amber".

Function

Electric generators work on the principle of electromagnetic induction discovered by Michael Faraday. He found that the above flow of electric charges could be induced by moving an electrical conductor, such as a wire that contains electric charges, in a magnetic field. This movement creates a voltage difference between the two ends of the wire or electrical conductor, which in turn causes the electric charges to flow, thus generating electric current.

Types of Electric Generators

There are two main types of electric generators: Alternating Current (AC) generators and Direct Current (DC) generators.

Alternating Current (AC) generators: These generators produce an output that is a function of time. They are also known as alternators. They are commonly used in power plants and are also found in cars to recharge the battery and to power the electrical system when the engine is running.

Direct Current (DC) generators: These generators produce a constant output. They are not as common as AC generators and are typically used in older cars and other types of machinery.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Electric generator
Wikipedia's article - Electric generator

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Electric generator