Power Sources on the Car

Two power sources are used on vehicles. When the engine is not running or is being started, the battery provides power. When the engine is running, the alternator provides power for the loads of the vehicle and for recharging the battery.

• THE BATTERY
  The battery is the primary source of electrical energy on vehicles when the engine is not running or is being started. It uses an electrochemical reaction to change chemical energy into electrical energy for starting, ignition, charging, lighting, and accessories. All vehicles use a 12-volt battery. Batteries have polarity markings, the larger (thicker) terminal is marked (plus) or (POS) or (+), the other terminal is marked (minus) or (NEG) or (-). Correct polarity is important; components can be damaged if the battery is connected backwards.


• THE ALTERNATOR
  The alternator is the heart of electrical system of the vehicle when the engine is running. It uses electromagnetism to change some of the mechanical energy of the engine into electrical energy for powering the loads of the vehicle and for charging the battery.

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