If the output voltage of a DC generator rises sharply from minimum load to full load, it is classified as what type of generator?

The type of generator characterized by a sharp rise in output voltage from minimum load to full load is the series generator. This occurs because, in a series generator, the field windings are connected in series with the armature. As load increases, more current flows through the field windings, which increases the magnetic field strength and consequently boosts the voltage output even further.

This behavior is distinct to series generators, as they are designed to respond to load changes in this manner. At lower loads, the field strength is minimal, and the output voltage can be lower; however, as the load increases, the resultant increase in current significantly enhances the output voltage.

Other types of generators exhibit different behaviors. A shunt generator typically maintains a relatively constant output voltage regardless of load changes, while compound generators can provide a mix of both shunt and series features but would not be classified solely based on the sharp rise in voltage associated with series generators. An independent generator, on the other hand, features a separate field current supply, which does not vary with the load, leading to stable voltage regardless of load changes. This further emphasizes why the series generator is the correct classification for this behavior.