Electromagnetic induction
| Electromagnetism |
|---|
| File:VFPt Solenoid correct2.svg |
| Electricity · Magnetism · Magnetic permeability |
Electromagnetic induction is where a voltage or current is produced in a conductor by a changing magnetic flux. It may happen when a magnet is moved in a solenoid, or when a solenoid is constantly moved in a stationary magnetic field, thus changing the magnetic flux.
Magnetic flux[change]
When a coiled wire is introduced near a magnet, the magnetic lines of force pass through the coil. This causes the magnetic flux to change. Magnetic flux is represented by the symbol <math>{\Phi}</math>, therefore we can say that <math>{\Phi}</math> = BAcos(a) and the resulting unit will be <math>Tm^2</math>, where T is the unit for magnetic field and <math>m^2</math> is the unit for area.
The changing magnetic flux generates an electromotive force (EMF). This force moves free electrons in a certain way, which constitute a current.
Faraday's law[change]
Michael Faraday found that an electromotive force is generated when there is a change in magnetic flux in a conductor.
His laws state that:
<math> \mathcal{E} = {-{d\Phi} \over dt}</math>
where,
<math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the electromotive force, measured in volts;
<math>{d\Phi}</math> is the change in magnetic flux, measured in webers;
<math>dt</math> is the change in time, measured in seconds.
In the case of a solenoid:
<math> \mathcal{E} = {-N{d\Phi} \over dt}</math>
where,
N is the number of loops in the solenoid.
Lenz's law[change]
The negative sign in both equation above is a result of Lenz's law, named after Heinrich Lenz. His law states that the electromotive force (EMF) produces a current that opposes the motion of the changing magnetic flux.