Generator

Convert mechanical energy to electrical energy

An electric generator converts mechanical energy to electrical energy by rotating a coil in a magnetic field. The changing magnetic flux induces an alternating EMF proportional to the number of turns N, field strength B, coil area A, and angular velocity ω. This is the reverse of a motor. The output frequency equals the rotation frequency — 60 Hz for US power grids requires 3600 rpm (or 1800 rpm with 4-pole machines).