How is electricity generated?
The electrical energy that we use in our homes and schools may be generated in a power station or wind Revolving machine with blades that are turned by wind, water or steam. Turbines in a power station turn the generators..
Because it is a form of energy, electrical energy cannot be “made”.
It must be converted from a different form of energy.
How this can be done is shown below.
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As the magnet moves into and out of the coil of wire, the Energy which an object possesses by being in motion. of the moving magnet is converted to electrical energy.
The process is known as electromagnetic induction.
We say that electricity is generated when the magnet moves near or inside the coils of wire and electric current flows.
Key point
- The direction of the current can be reversed by reversing the direction the magnet moves or by turning the magnet around and reversing the direction of the magnetic field.