RE: How does a brushless motor work?
I have a bit of experience with AC VFD's.
It is amazing to see a 60hp AC motor spin a 1600 lb load to 800rpm then use the VFD for Braking to slow the load down.
It is commonly used in Industrial laundry equipment.
Gerald0 is quite correct!
Read a bit on "Tesla" ( father of AC current) , it will do wonders for your perception of electricity.