SOLUTION

An MHD generator (Magnetohydrodynamic generator) is a device that directly converts heat into electrical energy.

• Working Principle: MHD generators work on the principle of Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction. This law states that when a conductor moves through a magnetic field, an electromotive force (EMF), or voltage, is induced in the conductor. In an MHD generator, the moving conductor is replaced by a high-temperature plasma, which is an electrically conductive gas.

• Components: The main components of an MHD generator are:

  • Plasma: A hot, ionized gas that acts as the moving conductor. It’s created by heating a gas (like argon or combustion products) to very high temperatures.
  • Magnetic Field: A strong magnetic field is applied perpendicular to the flow of the plasma.
  • Electrodes: Two electrodes are placed on opposite sides of the plasma flow, perpendicular to both the magnetic field and the plasma flow. These electrodes collect the induced electric current.