alternator: Quick Facts

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Facts

Also Known As	alternating-current generator

Photos

automobile alternator

Diagram of a car highlighting its electrical system, with labeled components such as the instrument panel, ignition system, battery, fuse blocks, wiring harnesses, and spark plugs, showing how power is distributed to various vehicle functions.

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Topics

magneto Ferranti-Thomson dynamo induction generator alternating current electric generator magnetohydrodynamic power generator thermionic power converter

Key People

Alexanderson alternator

Ernst F.W. Alexanderson

American electrical engineer