How are an electric motor and an electric generator similar? How are they different?
by 
Anonymous
ANSWERS: 3
-
In general, DC motors are similar to DC generators in construction. When current is passed through the armature of a DC motor, a torque is generated by magnetic reaction, and the armature revolves. The action of the commutator and the connections of the field coils of motors are precisely the same as those used for generators. The revolution of the armature induces a voltage in the armature windings. This induced voltage is opposite in direction to the outside voltage applied to the armature, and hence is known as back emf or counter emf (electromotive force). As the motor rotates more rapidly the back emf rises until it is almost equal to the applied voltage. The current is then small and the speed of the motor will remain constant as long as the motor is not under load and performing no mechanical work except that required to turn the armature. Under load the armature turns more slowly, reducing the back emf and permitting a larger current to flow in the armature. The motor is thus able to receive more electric power from the source supplying it and to do more mechanical work.
-
Similar: They both rotate on a core of magnets. Difference: generator input is the rotating core, output is electricity. motor input is electricity, output is rotating core.
-
A motor can be used as a generator and a generator can be used as a motor. It really only depends on input and output.
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC