Final answer:
The work needed to turn the generator's coils is influenced by Lenz's law, which dictates that the induced emf will create a magnetic field opposing the motion, requiring more work to generate electricity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The work required to turn the coils in an electric generator is directly related to Lenz's law. According to Lenz's law, an induced electromotive force (emf) always generates a current whose magnetic field opposes the original change in magnetic flux. In simple terms, when you turn the generator's coil, you are doing work against the magnetic resistance created by its own induced magnetic field. This means the harder you push to turn the generator (due to the magnetic opposition), the more work you are doing, and consequently, the more electrical energy you can generate.
The generation of electrical energy from mechanical energy follows this basic principle in all devices connected to our electrical grid. The source of mechanical energy, such as falling water, steam, or wind, is converted into electrical energy by rotating a coil within a magnetic field, thus turning kinetic energy into electrical energy.