- #1
Physical_Fire
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What's the difference between these two curves for AC Generator?
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- Thread starter Physical_Fire
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In summary, the two curves for an AC generator typically represent the voltage and current waveforms. The voltage curve shows the output voltage over time, while the current curve indicates the flow of current in response to that voltage. The key differences lie in their phase relationship; in resistive loads, the voltage and current are in phase, whereas in inductive or capacitive loads, they may be out of phase, affecting the power factor and overall efficiency of the generator.
- #2
Dale
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One uses numbers for labels while the other uses letters.
- #3
BvU
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And one is current, the other voltage 
You'll keep getting this kind of corny answers until you improve your question...
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You'll keep getting this kind of corny answers until you improve your question...
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- #4
Physical_Fire
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Why are the curves different? One revolution in the yellow picture is different to the one underneath it. The second picture looks like a cosine curve if started from 1. And how would I know how to draw 2 revolution curve? I am confused.
- #5
BvU
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You're not doing it deliberately, but the top picture in post #1 goes with the bottom picture in #4. Confusion lurks 
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An important relationship in this is Faraday's law: ##\quad\varepsilon = -{d\Phi\over dt}##.
Can you see how the two pictures agree in that respect ?
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.An important relationship in this is Faraday's law: ##\quad\varepsilon = -{d\Phi\over dt}##.
Can you see how the two pictures agree in that respect ?
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- #6
Physical_Fire
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I don't get it. Please explain
- #7
BvU
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On what level ? What do you know already ? About electromagnetic induction, Faraday's law, AC generators, etc ?Physical_Fire said:
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- #8
Physical_Fire
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Yeah I know those. I don't his equation although.
- #9
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The figures only can belong together if your circuit contains only a resistor, because if there were capacitors and/or coils present there'd be a phase shift between the EMF (sometimes confusingly called "voltage") and the current.
- #10
BvU
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I don't think we should complicate things for the OP .
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Ok, but the question wasPhysical_Fire said:
Lenz's law, Lorentz force, ... ?BvU said:
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- #11
Dale
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I don’t see any differences between the two pictures other than stylistic differences. The concept and the content are the same.Physical_Fire said:
Can you be very specific and clear about what you see that is different to you?
- #12
Gavran
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There are two notes, “1 cycle” in the first picture and “one revolution” in the second picture. Each of them shows what one cycle is or what one revolution is. But the cycle showed by the note “1 cycle” in the first picture is not the same as the cycle showed by the note “one revolution” in the second picture. “1 cycle” defines a revolution that begins from no. of rotations = 0 or from Time = 0 s, while “one revolution” defines a revolution that begins from Time = T/4 or from no. of rotations = 1/4. Which one will be used depends on which picture will be used in the process description. Every curve pattern, which is a revolution, must satisfied the condition that it can start at Time = t, where t can be any real number and it must end at Time = t + T where T is a period.
There is not a difference between two curves in two different pictures. Both of them describe the same process. The first revolution, in accordance with the definition of a revolution by the note “1 cycle” in the first picture, in the first picture begins from no. of rotations = 0 where e.m.f. = 0 V. Corresponding value of no. of rotations = 0 in the first picture is Time = 0 s in the second picture. The first revolution, in accordance with the definition of a revolution by the note “1 cycle” in the first picture, in the second picture begins from Time = 0 s where E.m.f. = 0 V.
There is not a difference between two curves in two different pictures. Both of them describe the same process. The first revolution, in accordance with the definition of a revolution by the note “1 cycle” in the first picture, in the first picture begins from no. of rotations = 0 where e.m.f. = 0 V. Corresponding value of no. of rotations = 0 in the first picture is Time = 0 s in the second picture. The first revolution, in accordance with the definition of a revolution by the note “1 cycle” in the first picture, in the second picture begins from Time = 0 s where E.m.f. = 0 V.
FAQ: What's the difference between these two curves for AC Generator?
What are the main differences between the sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal waveforms in AC generators?
Sinusoidal waveforms are smooth and periodic, representing the standard output of an ideal AC generator. Non-sinusoidal waveforms, such as square or triangular waves, can occur due to distortions or non-ideal conditions in the generator. The sinusoidal waveform is generally preferred for its consistency and efficiency in power transmission.
How does the frequency of the AC output differ between these two curves?
The frequency of the AC output remains consistent for both sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal waveforms if the generator operates at a constant speed. However, non-sinusoidal waveforms may contain harmonics, which are additional frequencies that can affect the overall performance and efficiency of electrical systems.
Why is a sinusoidal waveform typically preferred in AC generators?
A sinusoidal waveform is preferred because it provides a smooth and continuous flow of electricity, which minimizes losses and reduces the risk of overheating in electrical components. It also ensures compatibility with a wide range of electrical devices and systems designed to operate on standard AC power.
What causes a non-sinusoidal waveform in an AC generator?
Non-sinusoidal waveforms can be caused by several factors, including mechanical issues within the generator, irregularities in the magnetic field, or electrical load variations. Additionally, certain types of loads, such as rectifiers or nonlinear loads, can introduce distortions into the waveform.
How can the quality of the AC output be improved to achieve a more sinusoidal waveform?
Improving the quality of the AC output can be achieved by ensuring the generator is well-maintained, using filters to reduce harmonics, and employing power conditioning equipment. Additionally, designing the generator with high-quality materials and precise manufacturing techniques can help produce a more stable and sinusoidal output.