An AC generator, also known as an alternator, is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy in the form of alternating current (AC). It operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction, where a conductor, such as a coil of wire, rotates within a magnetic field, generating electricity. AC generators are commonly used in power plants and various applications, including vehicles and portable generators. They are essential for supplying electricity to homes and industries, as AC is the standard form of electricity used in most electrical systems worldwide.