A DC motor works by using the power of magnets. Opposite poles on magnets attract each other, whereas similar, or like, poles repel. A permanent magnet DC motor uses a field magnet to set up a static magnetic field. An armature with an arrangement of electromagnets is connected to an axle. The magnetic field pushes the electromagnets around, causing the axle to turn. There are six main parts in an ordinary DC motor.

Armature
The armature is an assembly of conductors, wound into tight coils. An electric current is passed through these conductors, creating an electromagnetic field around them. Most explanatory diagrams of a DC motor show just two electromagnets for the sake of clarity, but in practice, the majority of commercially available motors contain at least three.

Fixed Magnet(s)As with the electromagnetic coils, DC motor diagrams usually show only one magnet for simplicity, but in practice, more may be used. Usually secured to the inside of the motor housing, these permanent magnets set up opposing and attractive magnetic forces. These forces push and pull against the electromagnetic coils, driving the armature around.