What is the armature in an electric machine?

• A. The stator is the rotating part that generates magnetic field
• B. The armature is the part of an electric machine where electrical energy is converted to mechanical energy
• C. The rotor carries permanent magnets
• D. The housing stores energy

Answer: (B)

Armature is the winding assembly where electricity and magnetism interact to produce motion. In a motor, electrical energy is supplied to the armature windings; the current in the magnetic field creates torque, turning the shaft and delivering mechanical energy. In a generator, mechanical energy turns the armature so that the changing magnetic flux induces electrical energy in those windings. The stator provides the magnetic field and remains stationary, while the rotor is the moving part that may carry windings or magnets depending on the design. The housing is just containment and support, not where the energy conversion happens. So the armature is defined by its role in converting electrical energy to mechanical energy (or vice versa) within the machine.