What is the stator in an AC motor?

• A. The rotating part that responds to the stator's magnetic field
• B. A device that changes voltage levels
• C. A component that starts and stops the motor
• D. Stationary part that generates a rotating magnetic field (in AC motors)

Answer: (D)

The stator is the stationary part of an AC motor that houses the windings which generate the rotating magnetic field. When AC power energizes the stator windings, the currents create a magnetic field that travels around the stator (in a three‑phase motor, the phased currents produce a field that appears to rotate). This rotating magnetic field drives the rotor, causing it to turn while the stator remains fixed. The other descriptions refer to the moving part that follows the field (the rotor), a device that changes voltage, or a start/stop component, none of which define the stator.