🔍 Key Concepts

• Alternator voltage regulation and how a voltage regulator works • The relationship between load, current, and terminal voltage in a properly regulated AC generator • Difference between an ideal source and a real alternator on a vessel

💭 Think About

• When you turn on more electrical loads on a vessel, what should ideally happen to the system voltage if the alternator and regulator are working correctly? • How does the voltage regulator respond when load (current draw) increases on the alternator output? • Think about what would happen to sensitive equipment if the alternator’s voltage changed a lot every time the load changed.

✅ Before You Answer

• Recall that marine alternators normally have a voltage regulator to maintain a set system voltage (e.g., 24 V, 120 V, 440 V, etc.). • Consider whether the question is asking about a real, regulated alternator in normal operation, not a failed or unregulated one. • Check each option against what would be acceptable for stable shipboard electrical systems supplying navigation and communication equipment.