Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Electric generators are devices that convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. They work on the principle of electromagnetic induction, where a coil of wire is rotated in a magnetic field to produce an electric current.
Related terms
Turbines: Turbines are often used in electric generators to convert kinetic energy from water, steam, or wind into mechanical energy.
Alternating current (AC): Electric generators typically produce AC power, which periodically changes direction and is commonly used for household electricity.
This law states that the magnitude of induced electromotive force (EMF) in a circuit is directly proportional to the rate at which magnetic flux changes through it. It forms the basis for understanding how electric generators work.