Which device converts mechanical energy into electricity?

Which device converts mechanical energy into electricity?

• A. Electric Generator
• B. Electric Motor
• C. Transformer
• D. Battery

Answer: (A)

Converting mechanical energy into electricity happens when motion is transformed into electrical energy through electromagnetic induction. An electric generator takes a source of mechanical energy, like a turbine or engine, and spins a rotor inside a magnetic field (or moves magnets past coils). The changing magnetic flux in the coils induces electric current, turning the input motion into electrical energy. In contrast, a motor uses electrical energy to produce motion; a transformer changes voltage without creating electricity from motion; and a battery stores chemical energy and releases electrical energy, not energy from motion. So the device that does the mechanical-to-electrical conversion is the electric generator.

Converting mechanical energy into electricity happens when motion is transformed into electrical energy through electromagnetic induction. An electric generator takes a source of mechanical energy, like a turbine or engine, and spins a rotor inside a magnetic field (or moves magnets past coils). The changing magnetic flux in the coils induces electric current, turning the input motion into electrical energy. In contrast, a motor uses electrical energy to produce motion; a transformer changes voltage without creating electricity from motion; and a battery stores chemical energy and releases electrical energy, not energy from motion. So the device that does the mechanical-to-electrical conversion is the electric generator.