Key Terms
what is electromagnetic induction
Generating an electric current from the motion of a conductor through a magnetic field is called electromagnetic induction.
what is a transformer
A transformer consists of two separate coils of insulated wire wrapped around an iron core.
How can an electric current be produced in a conductor?
An electric current is induced in a conductor when the conductor moves through a magnetic field.
What is electromagnetic induction?
Electromagnetic induction is generating an electric current from the motion of a conductor through a magnetic field.
How are an AC generator and a DC generator the same? How are they different?
They are practically the same except they use a communicator instead of a slip ring.
What is direct current
A current consisting of charges that flow in one direction only is called direct current, or DC.
What is a step-up transformer
A transformer that increases voltage is called a step-up transformer.
How does a generator work?
A generator uses motion in a magnetic field to produce a current.
What are two ways to induce an electric current?
Either the conductor can move through the magnetic field or the magnet itself can move.
What does a transformer do?
A transformer is something that increases or decreases voltage.
what is alternating current
This kind of current is called alternating current, or AC.
what is a step-down transformer
A transformer that decreases voltage is called a step-down transformer.
What is the function of a transformer?
A transformer is a device that increases or decreases voltage.
What determines whether an induced current is a direct current or alternating current?
The direction of the current depends on the direction of the magnets and coils.
Look at Figure 16. What is the difference between a step-up transformer and a step-down transformer?
the difference is that a step-up transformer has more loops on the secondary coil and a step-down transformer has more loops on the primary coil.
What is an electric generator
An electric generator is a device that transforms mechanical energy into electrical energy.
How is energy transformed by a generator?
It uses mechanical energy to make electrical energy.
Why do some appliances have step-down transformers built into them?
Some appliances have step-down transformers built in so they don't need as much voltage.
How does a generator produce alternating current?
As the crank is turned, the armature rotates in the magnetic field.