In practical electromechanical control, which electromagnetic device explicitly contains a hinged or pivoted armature that is pulled by a coil to make or break electrical contacts?

Introduction / Context:
The term “armature” is used across several electromagnetic devices, but in control and switching applications it most commonly describes the moving iron piece in a relay that opens or closes contacts under coil excitation. Understanding this helps technicians quickly identify components and failure modes in control panels and automation systems.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We focus on the control/switching context where an armature physically actuates contacts.
• Devices considered: speaker, dc generator, relay, solenoid, induction motor.
• Terminology follows common industrial practice.

Concept / Approach:
A relay consists of a coil, a magnetic core, and a movable ferromagnetic armature linked to spring-loaded contacts. When energized, magnetic attraction pulls the armature, changing the contact state (NO/NC). While generators also have an armature (the current-carrying rotor or stator winding), the question targets the device where the armature is the moving yoke that explicitly makes/breaks contacts in a control circuit.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify device with a hinged moving iron piece controlling contacts → relay.Speaker cones are driven by a voice coil but lack a hinged armature for switching contacts.Solenoids have a plunger; some literature loosely says “armature,” but standard control switching function is that of a relay.Induction motor rotors do not use a relay-style armature mechanism.

Verification / Alternative check:
Relay datasheets explicitly label the moving part as an “armature,” showing exploded diagrams with coil, yoke, and armature linked to contacts.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
DC generators have an armature in the machine-theory sense, but not the hinged contact-actuating piece intended here.

Speakers and induction motors do not have relay-style armatures making electrical contact changes.

Solenoids actuate a plunger, not switching contacts by a hinged armature as the primary function.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing machine-theory “armature” (generator/motor winding) with the relay’s mechanical armature. Context determines the correct interpretation.

Final Answer:
A relay