H.S & M.

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TOPIC :- Project Work
ON
Model of Electric Generator

PROJECT
SUBMITTED BY SUBMITTED TO
NAME : MOUSOMI BARUAH

CLASS : PHYSICS TEACHER

STREAM : SCIENCE
ROLL : NO :
YEAR : 2024-2025 TEACHER’S SIGNATURE
Reg. NO :
 Certificate
This is to certify that _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ a
student of Class 12th has successfully completed his physic project
work on the topic “Model of Electric Generator” under the
guidance of subject teacher MOUSUMI BARUAH during the year
2024-2025 from DAWSON H.S AND M.P SCHOOL in partial
fulfillment of physics practical examination conducted by .

____________ ____________
TEACHER IN CHARGE EXTERNAL EXAMINER

__________

PRINCIPAL SCHOOL RUBBER STAMP

It would be utmost pleasure to express my sincere thanks and gratitude to
Our Physics Teacher MOUSUMI BARUAH in providing a helping hand in
this project. Their valuable guidance, support and supervision all through this
titled “Model of Electric Generator” are responsible for attaining its
present form.
 INDEX
SL. NO TOPIC
1 Introduction
2 Content
• Aim
• Equipment Used
• Working Principle of a Generator
• AC and DC Generation
• Types of Current Generation
• Process of Current Generation
• Process of Making Generation
3 Bibliography
 INTODUCTION
The hands-on model of an electric generator offers an engaging way to
explore how mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy through
electromagnetic induction. By constructing and experimenting with this
model, students gain –practical insights into core physics principles like
magnetism and energy transformation. This project is crucial as it connects
theoretical learning to real-world applications, demonstrating how generators
power homes and industries. It also underscores the importance of energy
efficiency and sustainability, promoting understanding of renewable energy
sources. Ultimately, this hands-on experience fosters innovation, critical
thinking, and a deeper appreciation for electrical power generation in modern
society.
Aim:
To comprehend the working principles of a generator and explore the process involved in the generation of
electrical current.

Equipment Used:

• Plywood

• Cardboard

• DC Motor

• Wire

• Lights

• Energy Source (Battery)

• Other accessories/tools as required

Working Principle of a Generator

A generator is an electrical device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. The underlying
principle that governs the operation of a generator is electromagnetic induction, discovered by Michael
Faraday. Faraday’s Law of Electromagnetic Induction states that whenever a conductor is moved within a
magnetic field, a voltage (or electromotive force) is induced across the conductor. If the circuit is closed, this
induced voltage drives an electric current.

In essence, generators create electricity by forcing electrons to flow through a circuit. This process takes place
in several types of generators—whether it’s a small hand-cranked model or a massive power plant turbine—
and the design may vary, but the fundamental principle remains the same. Below, we’ll explore this principle
in depth, along with the different parts and types of generators.

When a conductor (like a coil of wire) cuts across a magnetic field, the relative motion between the magnetic
field and the conductor induces a voltage. This voltage can generate electric current if the conductor is part of
a closed circuit.

This phenomenon is mathematically described by Faraday's First Law:

𝑑𝜙
𝑒=
𝑑𝑡

Here:

• e = Induced electromotive force (emf)

• Φ = Magnetic flux

• t = Time
The change in magnetic flux over time results in the generation of voltage. The polarity of the induced voltage
is governed by Lenz's Law, which states that the induced emf will produce a current that opposes the change
in magnetic flux.

The mechanical energy from the prime mover (such as a turbine, motor, or hand crank) rotates the armature
or rotor within the magnetic field produced by the stator. As the coil of the rotor cuts through the magnetic
lines of flux, a voltage is induced across the ends of the coil. This voltage then drives a current through the
circuit if it is connected to an electrical load.

The magnitude of the induced voltage depends on several factors:

• Speed of rotation: Faster rotation results in more flux cutting the coil, inducing higher voltage.

• Strength of the magnetic field: A stronger magnetic field induces a higher voltage.

• Number of turns in the coil: More turns increase the total induced voltage.

AC and DC Generation

There are two main types of generators—Alternating Current (AC) generators and Direct Current (DC)
generators.

1. AC Generators (Alternators):
In an AC generator, the rotation of the armature coil within the magnetic field induces an alternating
voltage. The output current reverses its direction periodically, following a sinusoidal waveform. The
current generated by alternators is what powers homes and industries.

o Working: As the coil rotates, it experiences a change in magnetic flux. In one half of the
rotation, the flux linkage increases, and in the other half, it decreases. This results in an
alternating current.

2. DC Generators:
In a DC generator, a commutator is used instead of slip rings to convert the alternating voltage
produced in the coil into direct voltage. The commutator is a split ring that ensures the current always
flows in one direction.

o Working: As the armature rotates, the commutator reverses the connections of the coil with
the external circuit at appropriate moments, ensuring a unidirectional current flow.

Types of Generators

Based on Current Type:

1. AC Generator: Produces alternating current; commonly used in power plants.

2. DC Generator: Produces direct current; used in applications like battery charging.

Based on Prime Mover:

1. Steam Turbine Generators: Used in thermal power plants.

2. Hydro Generators: Driven by water turbines in hydroelectric plants.

3. Wind Generators: Operate on wind energy; used in wind farms.

 4. Gas Engine Generators: Commonly used as backup generators.

Process of Current Generation

The key steps involved in generating current using a generator are:

1. Mechanical Energy Input: The generator's rotor is connected to a prime mover. This could be a steam
turbine, water turbine, windmill, or even a hand crank.

2. Rotation of the Armature: As the prime mover rotates the armature, the coil within the rotor starts
moving inside the magnetic field.

3. Induction of Voltage: As the armature coil cuts through the magnetic flux, a voltage is induced in the
wire.

4. Current Generation: If the generator is connected to a closed external circuit, the induced voltage
causes current to flow through the load.

5. AC or DC Output: Depending on the type of generator and its configuration (slip rings or
commutators), the output can either be AC or DC.

6. The working principle of a generator is based on electromagnetic induction, where

mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy. Whether it is an AC or DC generator, the
basic process involves the rotation of a coil within a magnetic field to induce voltage.
Generators play a critical role in power generation, from large-scale power plants to small
backup units, ensuring a reliable supply of electricity for modern life.

From the principle of electromagnetic induction (EMI) and the working of a generator, we can create a
practical model to better understand how mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy. This model
demonstrates how simple mechanical components can be assembled to illustrate the fundamental concepts of
power generation. To construct this model, we will need two DC motors along with some additional
components such as a battery, wires, resistors, and lights. The core idea behind the model is to connect two
motors in such a way that rotating one motor drives the other, generating electricity without any external
energy supplied to the second motor.

This setup adheres to the Law of Conservation of Energy and the First Law of Thermodynamics. According to
these principles, energy cannot be created or destroyed but only converted from one form to another. In
practical applications, engineers use mechanical energy sources like petrol or diesel engines to drive
generators, producing electricity that powers industries, homes, and infrastructure. Similarly, in this model, we
will supply electrical energy to the first motor using a 9V DC battery. This motor will act as the **prime
mover**, converting electrical energy into mechanical energy through rotation. The mechanical energy from
the first motor is then transferred to the second motor via their connected shafts, causing the second motor to
rotate and generate electrical energy.

When the first motor rotates, the connected second motor spins along with it, acting as a generator. Inside the
second motor, the armature (a coil of wire) rotates within the magnetic field provided by the stator. As the coil
cuts across the magnetic field lines, the magnetic flux through the coil changes continuously. According to
Faraday’s Law of Electromagnetic Induction, any change in the magnetic flux through a conductor induces an
electromotive force (emf) in the conductor. This emf is what drives the flow of electrons through the circuit,
producing electric current. If the motor is connected to a complete external circuit with loads like bulbs, the
current flows through the circuit, lighting the connected bulbs.

The amount of electrical energy generated by the second motor depends on several factors, including the
speed at which the armature rotates, the strength of the magnetic field, and the number of turns in the coil. A
higher speed of rotation increases the rate at which the magnetic flux changes, producing more emf. Similarly,
stronger magnets in the stator and a greater number of coil windings will result in more significant current
generation.

In our model, the generated current is transmitted from the second motor to the lights and accessories using
wires. However, electrical circuits must be carefully designed to avoid damage to components. To ensure safe
operation, a resistor is connected in series with the load. The resistor serves as a current limiter, preventing
the flow of excess current that could cause the light bulbs to burn out or fuse. This step is essential for
protecting sensitive electrical components and ensuring the longevity of the circuit.

The energy transfer process in the model follows a clear pathway. First, the battery provides electrical energy
to the first motor, which converts it into mechanical energy in the form of rotation. This mechanical energy is
transferred to the second motor, which, through the principle of electromagnetic induction, generates
electrical energy. The electrical energy is then delivered to the connected lights, completing the energy
conversion cycle.

This simple yet effective model demonstrates the conversion of electrical energy into mechanical energy and
then back into electrical energy. It highlights how modern generators operate, relying on the principles of
energy conservation and electromagnetic induction. While our model uses a 9V battery as the energy source,
large generators in real-world applications use mechanical energy from fuel engines, steam turbines, water
turbines, or windmills to generate electricity on a much larger scale.

Through this model, we can better understand how various forms of energy are transformed and utilized.
Generators are integral to modern life, powering homes, industries, and essential infrastructure. The model
also teaches valuable lessons in circuit design, such as the importance of resistors in regulating current and
protecting components. By using two motors in a closed-loop system, we replicate how mechanical power
drives generators in real-world applications, making it a useful learning tool for students and enthusiasts alike.

This experiment also emphasizes the importance of efficient energy use. Since energy cannot be created but
only transformed, minimizing energy losses during conversion is crucial for sustainability. For example, in
actual power plants, careful design is required to maximize efficiency and reduce heat losses during the
conversion of mechanical energy to electrical energy. In our model, using a 9V DC battery as the energy source
highlights how even small systems require careful consideration of energy input and output to function
effectively.

This hands-on model not only illustrates the fundamentals of EMI and thermodynamics but also provides
insight into how real-world electrical systems work. Whether it is a hydroelectric dam, a wind turbine, or a
petrol-driven generator, all rely on these principles to generate electricity. Through this model, we can
appreciate the science behind everyday devices and systems that make modern life possible, while also
reinforcing the significance of energy conservation and the efficient use of resources.
For successfully completing my project file on “MODEL OF AN ELECTRIC GENERATOR”,
I have taken help from the following website links:-

www.google.com

www.wikipedia.com

www.youtube.cosm

www.openai.com

• Help From Teacher

• NCERT TextBook Class 12
• NCERT Physics Lab Manual
• Help From Internet