Electric AC Generator: Understand Magnetic Fields & Brushes

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the operation of AC generators, specifically addressing the conditions under which current is generated and the role of brushes in the system. Participants explore concepts related to magnetic fields, induced electromotive force (emf), and the mechanics of generator design.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the absence of current when the armature is perpendicular to the magnetic field, seeking clarification on this phenomenon.
  • Another participant explains that when the coil is perpendicular to the magnetic field, the magnetic flux linked with the coil is not changing, resulting in no induced emf.
  • There is a discussion about the necessity of brushes, with one participant questioning their purpose unless a commutator is involved to convert the AC generator into a DC generator.
  • Another participant suggests that brushes are needed to prevent the leads from twisting if the coil rotates within a stationary magnetic field.
  • One participant acknowledges a moment of confusion regarding the topic.
  • A later reply offers reassurance, indicating that confusion is common among participants.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the necessity of brushes in AC generators, with differing views on their purpose and design implications. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific conditions affecting current generation.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the type of AC generator being discussed are not explicitly stated, and there may be dependencies on definitions of terms like "brushes" and "commutator." The discussion does not clarify the specific design of the generator in question.

genevievelily
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Hi! I have been studying AC generators. I am confused about why there is no current when the armature is perpendicular to the magnetic field (when it is vertical). Also, what is the purpose of the brushes? Probably a really obvious answer, but it is confusing me. Any help would be appreciated, thanks!
 
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Are you considering a single flat coil rotating in a uniform magnetic field? If so, when the coil is in the position you describe its area is perpendicular to the field at this instant, so its area projected on to a plane at right angles to the field is a maximum and, at this instant, not changing. So the magnetic flux linked with the coil is not changing. So there is no induced emf.

Can't think why there should be brushes, unless there is also a commutator to turn the ac generator into a dc generator. Alternatively we're dealing with a different sort of ac generator from the simple type I assumed in the first paragraph.
 
Philip Wood said:
Can't think why there should be brushes

If the magnets are stationary and the loop of wire rotates, you need some mechanism to keep the leads to the loop from twisting around themselves ad infinitum, no?

Alternatively, you could use permanent magnets and a fixed loop, and rotate the magnets instead.
 
I was being stupid. Not for the first time.
 
Don't worry. We all end up wearing the dunce cap sometimes, myself included. :rolleyes:
 

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