AC Generator

The alternating emf $\varepsilon=\varepsilon_m\sin\omega t$ derived in section 4.4.4 by rotating a coil in a magnetic field is exactly the working principle of a real AC generator (or alternator) at commercial scale -- a machine that converts the mechanical energy used to rotate a coil or a field magnet into electrical energy, supplying essentially all large-scale power used in homes and industry. This section develops the alternator's underlying principle, its standard commercial construction (stator and rotor), the practical advantages of the stationary-armature/rotating-fie …