How does electromagnetic induction allow an electric generator to produce current?

An electric generator produces current by utilizing electromagnetic induction, a process governed by Faraday’s law of induction. This law states that an electromotive force is induced in a circuit whenever there is a change in the magnetic flux linked with that circuit.12

In a typical generator, this process functions as follows:

• Mechanical Rotation: A prime mover rotates the generator's rotor, which contains coils of wire, within a magnetic field produced by either permanent magnets or field coils.3
• Varying Magnetic Flux: As the rotor turns, the magnetic flux passing through the coils constantly changes—increasing and decreasing as the coils move relative to the magnetic poles.3
• Induction of Voltage: This rate of change in the magnetic flux induces an alternating voltage within the coils. The magnitude of this induced voltage is proportional to both the speed of the rotor and the strength of the magnetic flux.3
• Current Output: This induced voltage drives an electric current through the circuit. In direct-current (DC) generators, a commutator is used to reverse the connections, converting the inherently alternating voltage into a unidirectional output.3