What type of generator is an alternator classified as?

An alternator is classified as an AC generator because it operates by converting mechanical energy into alternating current (AC) electrical energy. In the process, the rotor of the alternator spins within a magnetic field, which induces an alternating voltage in the stator winding according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. This induction occurs because the magnetic flux through the winding changes as the rotor spins, resulting in the generation of an AC output.

This classification is important because it differentiates alternators from DC generators, which produce direct current (DC) by using a commutator to rectify the output. Understanding the type of current generated is crucial for selecting the appropriate generator for various applications, including power generation in electrical grids and backup power systems.