Which motor can operate only on alternating current?

Prepare for the MTA Transit Electrical Helper Exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Hints and explanations accompany each question. Get ready for your exam!

The induction motor is specifically designed to operate using alternating current (AC). This type of motor relies on electromagnetic induction to generate torque. When AC passes through the stator windings, it creates a rotating magnetic field, which induces current in the rotor and produces motion.

Induction motors are widely used in various applications due to their efficiency, robustness, and simplicity of design. They do not require brushes or separate excitation, making them inherently suitable for direct connection to AC supplies.

In contrast, DC motors and brushed motors are designed to operate with direct current (DC), utilizing commutation to switch the current direction in order to generate rotational motion. They rely on a different operational principle and are unsuitable for AC applications. While synchronous motors can operate with alternating current as well, their operational mechanism involves maintaining synchronization with the supply current, making the induction motor a more straightforward choice solely designed to function with AC.

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