Alternating-current (AC) and direct-current (DC) generators (top and bottom, respectively). The elipsis
Machine that converts mechanical
energy to
electricity for transmission and distribution over power lines to domestic, commercial, and industrial customers. Generators also produce the electric power required for automobiles, aircraft, ships, and trains. The mechanical power for an electric generator is usually obtained from a rotating shaft and is equal to the shaft
torque multiplied by the rotational, or angular, velocity (speed). The mechanical power may come from various sources:
turbines powered by water, wind, steam, or gas;
gasoline engines; or
diesel engines.
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Encyclopedia Britannica, 2008. Encyclopedia Britannica Online.
