Solution: A device that reverses the direction of flow of current through a circuit is called a commutator.
• Commutators are used in dynamos (DC Generators) and many DC Motors as well as universal motors.
• In a motor, the commutator applies electric current to the windings. By reversing the current direction in the rotating windings in each half turn, a steady rotating force (torque) is produced.
• In a generator, the commutator picks up the current generated in the windings, reversing the direction of current with each half turn, converts AC current into DC current.