What is a Generator

A generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. The process is based on the relationship between magnetism and electricity. in 1831, Faraday discovered that when a magnet is moved inside a coil of wire, electrical current flows in the wire.

A typical generator at a power plant uses an electromagnet - a magnet produced by electricity  - not a traditional magnet. The generator has a series of insulated coils of wire that form a stationary cylinder (nowadays this isn't always the case) this cylinder surrounds a rotary electromagnetic shaft. When the electromagnetic shaft rotates, it induces a small electric current in each section of the wire coil. Each section of the wire becomes a small, separate electrical conductor. The small currents of individual sections are added together to form one large current. This current is the electric power that is used by us.

Small generators, work on the same principle, using the magnet to produce the power, this is achieved by using a small engine usually petrol or diesel; this is attached to an alternator. The engine turns the shaft and electricity is produced.