Electric Motor
Explore how a commutator switches current to keep a coil turning.
Field N → S / ⊙ current toward you, ⊗ away
Arrows show wire forces. The split ring below is the commutator.
A simplified teaching model.
Left-hand rule: point your index finger along the field and middle finger along the current. Your thumb gives the force direction. Reversing current reverses force.
How to play
Change voltage to change the model speed. Reverse polarity to compare current and force directions. You can also set the angle while paused.
Learn more
A current-carrying wire in a magnetic field experiences force: F = BIL when perpendicular. The commutator switches current every half turn. Speed proportional to voltage is an assumption of this teaching model. Driving the shaft externally makes it a generator.