Parts

• Generators and motors use the same basic parts. Both devices are essentially coils of wire suspended in a magnetic field. A rotating armature holds either the coil or magnets generating the field, depending on the design. The only differences in construction are found in the peripheral parts. A generator is attached to a device like a hand crank or water wheel to turn its armature, causing the coil to generate electricity. The motor uses a battery to cause the coil to turn the armature and axle, rotating whatever is attached to it.
  
  

Uses

• Generators are used to charge batteries or provide power for tools or appliances. Motors are used to turn devices like wheels and drill heads.
  
  

Considerations

• Any motor can be made to function as a generator, and any generator can be made to function as a motor; all that is necessary is to run them backwards. However, each may not function quite as well when reversed. A motor's bearings might not stand up well to the stresses a generator experiences, for example. In addition, a generator or motor might not work efficiently at the new rotational speed it is run at when reversed.