D.C. Motor

• When a current-carrying coil is in a magnetic field, it experiences a turning effect.

• A DC motor runs on a direct current.

• The coil is made of insulated copper wire and is free to rotate between the poles of the magnet.

• The commutator (split-ring) is fixed to the coil and rotates with it.

• When the coil overshoots the vertical, the commutator changes direction of the current through it, so the forces change direction and keep the coil turning.

• The brushes are two contacts which rub against the commutator and keep the coil connected to battery, usually made of carbon

• The max. turning effect is when the coil is horizontal.

• There is no force when the coil is vertical, but it always overshoots this position