I'm trying to set up a magnetic generator with copper coils. I'm brand new to electronics.

I've read that the coils will create AC current, but I've also read that it will create DC current which can go straight to a battery. Now the AC current must so through something to switch it to DC before the battery right?

I need some reliable information here. Has anyone done anything like this or know enough about current to help out? I'm thinking about using an old car alternator. That will put out AC current right?

How do you create DC current alone?

Thank you for any help!