

This means that the alternator produces a current that is constantly changing. As the rotation continues and that side of the coil moves down, the induced potential difference reverses direction. Slip rings maintain constant contact with the same sides of the coilĪs one side of the coil moves up through the magnetic field, a potential difference is induced (created) in one direction.

Cars use a type of ac generator called an alternator to keep the battery charged and to run the electrical system while the engine is working. A simple ac generator consists of a coil of wire rotating in a magnetic field. An alternating current (ac) generator is a device that produces a potential difference.
