1. Electromagnets

2. Ways to increase the strength of an electromagnet
Increase voltage (battery power)
Increase the number of coils wrapped around
Change the core of the electromagnet to make it a better metal (like iron)

3. AC Generators
An external force turns the coil of wire inside the magnet which produces electricity
The current gets reversed every half turn
This is the type of generator that all power plants use to produce electricity to power homes

4. Why is it alternating current?

5. Turbine itself

6. Armature

7. Steam Generator

8. DC Generators
Same general principle as AC generators but the split-ring commutator causes the current to flow in one direction by acting like a switch while the armature rotates past the poles of the permanent magnet

9. DC Motors
Armature (coil of wire) begins to rotate when electricity flows through it
The permanent magnet repels and attracts the armature causing it to continue to spin
The commutator causes a break in current (switch)
Brushes deliver electricity from power source

10. Basic Motor Diagram
Commutator
Armature
Brushes
Magnet
Power Source

11. AC Motors

12. Topic 6 Review Q.2-6
2: increase the voltage, add more coils, change the metal bolt to be iron
3: AC = alternating current, current switches back and forth. DC = current flows in one direction. AC voltage can be increased.
4: both have an armature, they both transform energy. Difference = opposites of energy transformations.
5: Brushes: connect electrical flow Split ring: causes break, creating DC, like a switch 6:

13. Lab Series Use a DC Generator
Build A Motor
Use the battery to make the armature and then connect the battery to the motor and try to get the armature to spin continuously (DC Motor)
Unhook the armature and create one with many extra coils around and try again.
Notice: When does it spin the fastest?
Question: What could I do to make it a better motor?
Use a DC Generator
Use the hand-crank generator to power a light bulb connected to the alligator clips.
Notice: When are the lights the brightest?
Question: Why is this a DC generator and not an AC generator?