To reverse a DC motor, which component's leads are typically reversed?

Reversing a DC motor typically involves changing the direction of the current flow through one of its two main components: the armature or the field. In most cases, reversing the leads of the armature is the method employed for this purpose.

When the armature leads are reversed, the current flowing through the armature windings changes direction, which in turn reverses the magnetic field produced by the armature. This change in the magnetic field causes the rotor to spin in the opposite direction. This method is straightforward and effective for achieving reversible operation in DC motors.

While reversing the field leads can also reverse the motor's direction, this approach is less common in practical applications because it often requires more complex adjustments to the motor's circuitry. The supply circuit leads affect the overall power supply but do not directly influence the motor's rotational direction. Switch leads pertain to the control of the circuit but do not alter the motor's spin direction on their own.

Thus, reversing the armature leads is the most direct and effective method for reversing the direction of a DC motor.