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Chapter 6: Problem 49

What is an electric generator?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: An electric generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy using the principles of electromagnetic induction, based on Faraday's law. It works by moving a conductive wire or coil through a magnetic field, or by moving a magnet around a conductive coil. As the coil moves through the magnetic field, a voltage is induced across it, causing a current to flow and generating electrical energy. The mechanical energy provided to the generator (e.g., by a turbine through rotation) is transformed into electrical energy through this process.

Step by step solution

01

Definition of Electric Generator

An electric generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. This is done by using the principles of electromagnetic induction, which is based on Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction.
02

Purpose of Electric Generator

The main purpose of an electric generator is to produce electricity. Generators are often used as backups during power outages or used in places where access to the electrical grid is limited. Additionally, electric generators can be found in power plants, where they convert the energy from various sources (e.g., coal, natural gas, hydro, solar, or wind) into electricity that can be distributed to the consumers.
03

Working Principle: Electromagnetic Induction

In an electric generator, the mechanical energy is used to move a conductive wire or coil through a magnetic field, or to move a magnet around a conductive coil. As the conducting coil moves through the magnetic field, a voltage is induced across it according to Faraday's law. This induced voltage causes a current to flow through the coil, generating electrical energy.
04

Faraday's Law

Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction states that the electromotive force (EMF) induced in a circuit is proportional to the rate of change of magnetic flux passing through that circuit. Mathematically, it is expressed as: \[\mathcal{E} = -\dfrac{d\Phi_{B}}{dt}\] where \(\mathcal{E}\) represents the induced electromotive force, \(\Phi_{B}\) is the magnetic flux, and \(t\) is the time.
05

Relationship Between Mechanical Energy and Electrical Energy

The mechanical energy provided to the generator (e.g., by a turbine through rotation) is transferred to the generator's conductive coil or wire via the process of electromagnetic induction. This induces an electromotive force with a resulting electric current, thus transforming the mechanical energy into electrical energy. The efficiency of this energy conversion process depends on the generator design and materials used. By following these steps and understanding the basic principles behind an electric generator, you should have a clearer understanding of what an electric generator is and how it works to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy using electromagnetic induction.

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