If a direct current rotary generator has a commutator ring, what does an A.C. generator have?

An AC generator, also known as an alternator, uses slip rings to transfer the generated alternating current from the rotor to the external circuit. Unlike a direct current rotary generator that utilizes a commutator to convert the alternating current produced in the coil to direct current, an AC generator maintains the alternating nature of the current. The slip rings are conductive rings that allow the rotor's alternating current to pass through without interrupting the flow, providing a continuous electrical output.

In the context of generators and their components, slip rings are designed to provide a smooth transfer of electricity, making them essential for AC systems where the current changes direction periodically. The design ensures that the generator can operate effectively without the need to convert the current type, which is why slip rings are more appropriate for AC generators compared to commutators used in DC generators.

Commutator bars and rotary switches do not fulfill the same role and are not typically used in AC generator designs, and while transformers are related to AC electrical systems, they serve a different purpose altogether, which is voltage transformation rather than current generation. Understanding these components and their specific applications will enhance comprehension of electrical generation systems.