Nope, it didn't -- that particular comment was not directed at you -- you never said anything about my acceptance or knowledge of the laws of physics... (except good-natured ribbing, but that's always all good). I merely mentioned it in passing like I did so as to not start anything unnecessarily.

Anyway, let me give you the 3rd grade answer to this question that I asked for additional clarity on, so all can understand (tho you really did a pretty good job of explaining without getting too complex) ---

Q: How does the alternator drain horsepower due to more electrical draw on the battery?

A: Inside the alternator, there is a regulator which adjusts how much electrical power the alternator can make. As more power is required from the alternator, the magnetic field inside it gets stronger, causing the alternator itself to be harder and harder to turn. This, in turn, draws more and more on the engine due to the fact that the engine has to work harder to turn the alternator.

Believe me, I liked all the complexity and the technological answers and stuff... But this is the simple answer -- the electromagnetic field in the alternator grows stronger and stronger, making it harder to turn. Correct me if I'm wrong, tho...

-Chris