Question 6A352

An alternator, like any real-world voltage source, possesses internal resistance within its windings. When a load is applied, current flows from the alternator. This current, passing through the alternator's internal resistance, creates a voltage drop (V = I * R) across that internal resistance. The terminal voltage available at the alternator's output is the generated electromotive force (EMF) minus this internal voltage drop. Therefore, as the load increases, more current is drawn, leading to a larger internal voltage drop. This subtracts from the generated EMF, resulting in a decrease in the terminal voltage delivered to the load. Option B is incorrect because increasing the load consumes power and causes voltage to drop due to internal losses, not increase. Option C is incorrect as the load always affects the terminal voltage due to the fundamental principle of internal resistance.