What is the stationary part of a generator referred to as?

The stationary part of a generator is referred to as the stator. The stator plays a crucial role in the operation of an electric generator. It consists of a series of coils or windings that are fixed in place and serve to create a magnetic field when electricity is supplied to them.

As the rotor, which is the moving part of the generator, spins within the magnetic field established by the stator, it induces an electric current in the stator's coils through electromagnetic induction. This process is fundamental to converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. The stator's design and configuration can significantly influence the efficiency and output of the generator, making it an essential component for effective operation.

In contrast, while terms like rotor, armature, and coil are also important components of generators, they denote different aspects of the machinery. The rotor refers to the part that rotates, the armature can refer to either the rotor or the stator in certain contexts (typically where the induced current takes place), and a coil is simply a winding of wire that can exist in either the rotor or the stator. Understanding the distinct roles of these components is vital for comprehending generator functionality.