The motor has electro magnets, the generator has permanent magnets yo...

An electric motor is powered by electricity. An electric generator produces electricity, and is usually powered by some other means, such as a gasoline engine. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrical_generator

'

1) "In electricity generation, an electrical generator is a device that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy, generally using electromagnetic induction. The reverse conversion of electrical energy into mechanical energy is done by a motor, and motors and generators have many similarities. The source of mechanical energy may be a reciprocating or turbine steam engine, water falling through a turbine or waterwheel, an internal combustion engine, a wind turbine, a hand crank, the sun or solar energy, compressed air or any other source of mechanical energy." Source and further information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrical_generator 2) "An electric motor uses electrical energy to produce mechanical energy. The reverse process, that of using mechanical energy to produce electrical energy, is accomplished by a generator or dynamo. Traction motors used on locomotives often perform both tasks if the locomotive is equipped with dynamic brakes. Electric motors are found in household appliances such as fans, refrigerators, washing machines, pool pumps, floor vacuums, and fan-forced ovens." Source and further information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_motor Further information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor-generator

The motor turns electricity into movement. The generator turns movement into electricity. (Or, if you want to get technical, instead of movement say "kinetic energy" and instead of electricity say "electrical energy.) A motor can be used as a generator and a generator can be used as a motor.