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Primary current produces a magnetic field around the coil windings.
This does not occur instantly, because it takes time for the current
and the magnetic field to reach maximum value. The time element is
determined by the resistance of the coil winding or the length of
time the distributor contacts are closed. The current does not reach
the maximum because the contacts remain closed for such a short time,
and more so at higher engine speeds. When the breaker points begin to
open, the primary current will continue to flow. This condition in a
winding is increased by means of the iron core. Without an ignition
condenser, the induced voltage causing this flow of current would
create an arc across the contact points and the magnetic energy would
be consumed in this arc. As a result, the contact points would be
burned and ignition would not occur. The "condenser" prevents the arc
by making a place for the current to flow. As a result of condenser
action, the magnetic field produced and continued by the current flow
will quickly collapse. It is the rapid cutting out of magnetic field
that induces high voltage in the secondary windings. So, if the
condenser should go bad, the high voltage needed to jump the gap at
the spark plugs will not be possible. This could cause a no-start
condition or a driving problem.
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