How does an electric motor primarily operate?

Electric motors primarily operate by converting electrical energy into mechanical energy. When electrical current flows through the motor's windings, it generates a magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic field of the motor's stator or rotor. This interaction creates a force that causes the rotor to spin, thereby producing mechanical motion.

This conversion process is fundamental to the operation of a wide range of machinery and devices, enabling them to perform tasks such as driving pumps, fans, and conveyor belts. The efficiency and effectiveness of this conversion are critical in industrial applications, where electric motors are often preferred for their reliability and ease of control.

In contrast, converting mechanical energy into electrical energy typically occurs in generators, which is a different process. The use of hydraulic fluid pertains to hydraulic systems and is not directly related to the operation of electric motors. Lastly, storing energy in batteries is a method of energy storage rather than direct operation, as an electric motor functions when it draws power from an external electrical source.