Alternators, dynamos and Oscilloscopes

Question 1

Electromagnetic induction

Answer 1

Generating a current by moving a wire relative to a magnetic field

Question 2

Types of Generator

Answer 2

1. Alternator
2. Dynamos

Question 3

Components of a dynamo

Answer 3

Wire with a split ring commutator

Question 4

Components of an alternator

Answer 4

Wire with slip rings & brushes

Question 5

Current of dynamo

Answer 5

Due to split ring commutator, dynamos produce direct current (d.c.)

Question 6

Current of alternator

Answer 6

Due to slip rings and brushes, alternators produce alternating current (a.c.)

Question 7

How alternators work

Answer 7

1) Coil of wire rotates relative to magnets, inducing a magnetic field around the coil. This induces a current and voltage within the coil.

2) Slip rings and brushes mean that contacts don’t swap each turn

3) This means that they produce an alternating potential difference and alternating current

Question 8

How dynamos work

Answer 8

1) Coil spins relative to magnets and therefore a magnetic field, voltage and current are induced within the coil

2) Split ring commutator means that contacts sway each half turn

3) This produces a direct current (d.c.) because the current is always flowing in the same direction