2006-10-23 09:27:02 · 9 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Engineering
A generator converts kinetic motion into electrical current. A transformer converts a high current at a low voltage into a low current at a higher voltage and vice versa. In an electrical power distribution system, the generators are located at the power plant. There are large transformers next to the power plant to step the voltage way up. Power companies do this to reduce the losses in the power lines. Then the high voltage is stepped back down through other transformers as it gets closer to its destination
2006-10-23 09:38:02 · answer #1 · answered by Gopalakrishnan 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A generator converts kinetic motion into electrical current. A transformer converts a high current at a low voltage into a low current at a higher voltage and vice versa. In an electrical power distribution system, the generators are located at the power plant. There are large transformers next to the power plant to step the voltage way up. Power companies do this to reduce the losses in the power lines. Then the high voltage is stepped back down through other transformers as it gets closer to its destination.
JeffM
2006-10-23 16:34:03 · answer #2 · answered by Jeff M 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
A generator is a machine which produces electricity using any sort of fuel, whereas a transformer is a device which transforms or step down the voltage of electricity flow.
2006-10-23 16:38:28 · answer #3 · answered by ramnadh 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A generator is a device that converts mechanical torque to direct current electricity.
An alternator is a device that converts mechanical torque to alternating current electricity. Alternators are often mistakenly called "generators."
A transformer is a device that uses the principle of magnetic induction to couple two alternating current electrical circuits, usually for the purpose of changing the voltage from one circuit to the other. Transformers operate solely with alternating current.
For tons of information about these devices and the circuits in which they are used, do an internet search on "electrical distribution."
2006-10-23 16:37:52 · answer #4 · answered by aviophage 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A generator converts mechanical or chemical energy into electricity. A transformer is a means of changing the voltage so that the hundred thousand volt power line's energy can used at the 120 volt socket in your home.
The high voltage is used to minimize the voltage drop caused by the line resistance to the current going through it. It's totally wasted power.
2006-10-23 16:35:10 · answer #5 · answered by arbiter007 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
In electrical terms, a generator produces electricity (converting some other form of energy to electricity and heat), while a transformer steps the voltage up or down or may be used to convert from AC to DC and vice versa.
2006-10-23 16:31:54 · answer #6 · answered by thylawyer 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
A generator creates electrical energy from another energy source. A transformer changes the ratio of the voltage vs. amperage of electricity.
2006-10-23 16:34:47 · answer #7 · answered by smjps2 1 · 1⤊ 1⤋
A generator produces electricity from an outside energy source, usually mechanicat (turbine moved by water, turbine moved by steam, etc.)
A transformer trades voltage for amperage, changing an input voltage to a different voltage value (that is how high tension transport line electricity is reduced to a household value suitable for domestic usage). Transport lines use high voltage because that way, losses are minimized.
2006-10-23 16:32:48 · answer #8 · answered by Vincent G 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
a generator converts mechanical energy into electric energy
and a transformer is an electric device that changes one value of AC voltage into another value of AC voltage.
2006-10-23 19:17:54 · answer #9 · answered by anthonyp 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋