NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

What type of electrical motor uses a stator to create a rotating magnetic field?

1. Brushless DC Motor

2. AC Induction Motor

3. Permanent Magnet Motor

4. Stepper Motor

The correct answer is: AC Induction Motor

The type of electrical motor that uses a stator to create a rotating magnetic field is indeed the AC Induction Motor. This motor operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction, where alternating current flowing through the stator windings generates a rotating magnetic field. This rotating magnetic field induces a current in the rotor, which is typically a squirrel cage or wound rotor, causing it to turn and produce mechanical motion. In AC induction motors, the design of the stator plays a crucial role. It consists of coils that are evenly spaced and interconnected, creating a magnetic field that rotates in synchrony with the applied AC current. The frequency of the alternating current determines the speed of the rotating magnetic field. This design is essential to the operation of the motor, allowing for efficient energy conversion from electrical to mechanical power. Other motor types, such as brushless DC motors, permanent magnet motors, and stepper motors, do not primarily rely on the stator to create a rotating magnetic field in the same way as AC induction motors do. Instead, those motors have either fixed magnetic fields, different control methods, or utilize direct current, showcasing how the AC induction motor stands out with its unique operational principles.