Question -
Answer -
The electric generator coverts the mechanical energy into the electrical energy. The working principle of the electric generator is the electromagnetic induction. It generates electricity by rotating a coil in the magnetic field. The figure below shows the construction of a simple AC generator.
In the diagram,
A and B are brushes,
C and D are slip rings
X is the axle
G is the galvanometer
When the axle X is rotated clockwise, MN moves upwards while ST moves downward. The movement of MN and ST in the magnetic field results in the production of electric current due to electromagnetic induction. MN moves upwards and the magnetic fields act from left to right. Therefore, according to Fleming’s right hand rule, the direction of the induced current will be from M to N along the length MN. Similarly, the direction of the induced current will be from S to T along the length ST. The direction of the current in the coil is MNST. Hence, galvanometer shows a deflection in a particular direction.
After half a rotation, length MN starts moving downwards while the length ST starts moving upwards. Now, the direction of the induced current reverses to TSNM. Since the direction of the induced current reverses every half rotation, the current induced is known as alternating current.
Function of Brushes
Brushes are kept pressed on to two slip rings separately. Outer ends of brushes are connected to the galvanometer. Thus, brushes help in transferring current from coil to the external circuit.