Question

Write three differences between motor and generator.

Answer 1

Hint:Function of a motor is just the opposite of a generator. A motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy while the generator converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.

Complete step-by-step answer:
1. A generator is a device that can convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. It consists of two permanent magnets, a shaft or an axel, a coil or an armature, slip rings and a mechanical motor to rotate the coil.
A motor is a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. It comprises two magnets, a shaft or an axel, a coil or an armature, slip rings and a current source. This is the main difference between a motor and a generator.

2.Current is supplied to a motor and the flowing current is circulated around the armature which produces a force on the shaft due to the magnetic field present and this is responsible for the rotation of the shaft. So the current supplied to the motor is converted into mechanical energy.
In the case of a generator, the magnetic flux across the coil or armature changes when the coil is rotated with a motor and change in magnetic flux associated with the coil produces an E.M.F across the coil which is stored as electric energy.

3.The working principle of an electric motor is based on Fleming’s left-hand rule. While the working principle of an electric generator is based on Fleming’s right-hand rule.

Note: Fleming's left-hand rule(for motors) states that “When a current-carrying conductor is placed in an external magnetic field, the conductor experiences a force perpendicular to both the field and to the direction of the current flow.”
Fleming's right-hand rule (for generators) shows the direction of induced current when a conductor attached to a circuit moves in a magnetic field. It can be used to determine the direction of current in a generator's windings.