An output device that includes a coil of wire that creates a magnetic field when current passes through, often used to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy by pulling on something, is called what?

An output device that includes a coil of wire that creates a magnetic field when current passes through, often used to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy by pulling on something, is called what?

• A. Inductor
• B. Transformer
• C. Motor
• D. Resistor

Answer: (A)

This describes a device that uses current through a coil to create a magnetic field and then uses that field to exert motion, converting electrical energy into mechanical energy. That is the function of a motor: windings generate magnetic forces that interact with magnets or other windings to produce torque and cause rotation or linear motion. An inductor, while also a coil, stores energy in its magnetic field and resists changes in current rather than producing motion. A transformer uses magnetic coupling to transfer energy between circuits with no mechanical output. A resistor dissipates electrical energy as heat. So the best fit for this description is a motor.

This describes a device that uses current through a coil to create a magnetic field and then uses that field to exert motion, converting electrical energy into mechanical energy. That is the function of a motor: windings generate magnetic forces that interact with magnets or other windings to produce torque and cause rotation or linear motion.

An inductor, while also a coil, stores energy in its magnetic field and resists changes in current rather than producing motion. A transformer uses magnetic coupling to transfer energy between circuits with no mechanical output. A resistor dissipates electrical energy as heat. So the best fit for this description is a motor.