What is a synchronous generator?

Answer 1

Synchronous generators are the majority source of commercial electrical energy. They are commonly used to convert the mechanical power output of steam turbines, gas turbines, reciprocating engines and hydro turbines into electrical power for the grid.

(OR)

A "synchronous" generator runs at a constant speed and draws its excitation from a power source external or independent of the load or transmission network it is supplying. A synchronous generator has an exciter that enables the synchronous generator to produce its own " reactive" power and to also regulate its voltage. Synchronous generators can operate in parallel with the utility or in "stand-alone" or "island" mode. Synchronous generators require a speed reduction gear

Answer 2

A synchronous electric motor is an AC motor in which, at steady state,[1]the rotation of the shaft is synchronized with the frequency of the supply current; the rotation period is exactly equal to an integral number of AC cycles. Synchronous motors contain multiphase ACelectromagnetson the stator of the motor that create a magnetic field which rotates in time with the oscillations of the line current. Therotorwith permanent magnets or electromagnets turns in step with the stator field at the same rate and as a result, provides the second synchronized rotating magnet field of any AC motor. A synchronous motor is only considered doubly-fed if is supplied with independently excited multiphase AC electromagnets on both the rotor and stator.