Motor vs Generator — Difference (with Table)
Motor vs Generator compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table and 4 key points. Class 10 Physics, free and no sign-up.
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TL;DR: Motor vs Generator compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table and 4 key points. Class 10 Physics, free and no sign-up.
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The main difference between Motor and Generator: A motor is a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, while a generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical e
Motor vs Generator — Comparison Table
| Basis | Motor | Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Converts electrical energy to mechanical energy | Converts mechanical energy to electrical energy |
| Input | Requires electrical power input | Requires mechanical power input |
| Output | Produces rotational motion | Produces electrical current |
| Principle | Based on magnetic force on current-carrying conductor | Based on electromagnetic induction |
| Example | Fan, refrigerator, drill machine | Dynamo, alternator, power plants |
| Back EMF | Opposes applied voltage | Is the produced voltage |
Key Points
- Motors use electrical energy to create motion while generators use motion to create electricity
- Both motors and generators have the same basic structure: coil in magnetic field
- A motor produces back EMF which opposes the applied voltage and limits current
- Generators and motors are reversible: a motor can act as generator if driven mechanically