Generators
Cars use a type of a.c. generator, called an alternator, to keep the battery charged and to run the electrical system while the engine is working.
A dynamo is another type of generator sometimes found on the back wheel of a bicycle to run the lights.
Both convert Energy which an object possesses by being in motion. to electrical energy when a coil of wire rotates inside a magnet
A simple generator
The diagram shows a simple generator.
The size of the induced voltage, and hence induced current, can be increased by:
- increasing the speed of rotation of the coil;
- using a stronger magnet;
- increasing the number of turns on the coil.
Large scale a.c. generators in power stations are used to generate electricity.
The coil of these generators rotates 50 times a second and that is why our mains supply has a frequency of 50 Hz.
Northern Ireland has three fossil fuel power station:
- Ballylumford, near Larne – natural gas;
- Kilroot, near Carrickfergus – coal and oil;
- Coolkeeragh, at Maydown, Londonderry – natural gas.
Recently, it has been reported that Kilroot is to be replaced by a new, modern gas-fired power station.