Grade 11 → Electricity and Magnetism → Magnetism and Electromagnetism ↓
Electromagnetic induction
Electromagnetic induction is a fundamental concept in physics in which an electromotive force (EMF) is generated when a conductor is exposed to a changing magnetic field. This phenomenon forms the basis of many electrical devices and technologies, including transformers, inductors, and many types of electrical generators and motors.
Basic principles
The principle of electromagnetic induction was first discovered by Michael Faraday in 1831. According to Faraday's law of induction, the electromagnetic force induced in any closed circuit is equal to the negative of the time rate of change of the magnetic flux enclosed by the circuit.
This relation can be expressed by the following formula:
EMF = -dΦ/dt
where EMF
is the electromotive force measured in volts, and Φ
(phi) is the magnetic flux in webers.
Magnetic flux
Magnetic flux, represented by the Greek letter (Phi), is a measure of the amount of magnetization taking into account the strength and extent of the magnetic field. It can be calculated using the formula:
Φ = B * A * cos(θ)
Where:
B
is the magnetic field strength in Tesla (T).A
is the area in square metres (m2 ).θ
is the angle between the magnetic field lines and the normal (perpendicular) toA
Faraday's experiments and discoveries
In one of Faraday's most famous experiments, he wrapped two coils of wire on opposite sides of an iron ring. He let a current pass through one coil and observed that when the current in the first coil was turned on or off, a current was induced in the second coil. This happens because the magnetic field produced by the first coil was changing, causing an EMF to be induced in the second coil.
Example of simple induction experiment
To explain electromagnetic induction, consider the following simple physical setup:
- A coil of wire, known as a solenoid, is connected to the galvanometer.
- A bar magnet.
When the north end of the magnet is pushed into the coil, an electric current is observed in the galvanometer. This current exists only when the magnet is in motion. Similarly, if the magnet is pulled out of the coil, the direction of the current reverses, indicating that the electromotive force was induced by the changing magnetic field.
From this simple setup, let's look at the key points:
- If there is relative motion between a magnet and a coil then EMF is induced in the circuit.
- The strength of the induced e.m.f. is determined by the rate of change of magnetic flux.
Lenz's law
Lenz's law is a principle that further describes the behavior of induced currents. It states that the direction of the induced current is such that it opposes the change in magnetic flux that produced it. In simple terms, any induced current will create a magnetic field that opposes the motion or change that induced the current.
This can be understood mathematically by the negative sign in Faraday's law:
EMF = -dΦ/dt
Practical applications
Electromagnetic induction is used in many real-world devices and systems. Here are some key examples:
Electric generator
An electric generator converts mechanical energy into electrical energy using electromagnetic induction. When a coil rotates in a magnetic field, the magnetic flux linked with the coil changes, producing EMF and thus current.
Transformers
Transformers are devices used in electrical circuits to transfer energy between two or more coils through electromagnetic induction. They play a vital role in changing the voltage of AC currents in power systems. The principle of operation depends entirely on the induction between the coils.
Inductive charging
Wirelessly charging devices such as smartphones and electric toothbrushes uses electromagnetic induction by creating a magnetic field between the charging station and the device, allowing energy transfer to take place.
Its working mechanism is similar to that of a transformer, where the alternating current flowing in the charging base induces an alternating magnetic field, which in turn induces current in the coil inside the device.
Induction cooktops
Induction cooktops use magnetic fields to directly heat pots and pans. The cooktop itself remains cool, and the heat is concentrated in the cookware. This process occurs through electromagnetic induction, where a changing magnetic field in the cooktop induces an electric current in the metal pan, creating heat through electrical resistance.
Conclusion
Electromagnetic induction is a powerful concept that has wide applications in modern technology. Understanding its basic principles and understanding how it gives rise to induced currents and EMF gives us an idea of how many devices in our daily lives work.
From power generation to wireless charging and beyond, the principles of electromagnetic induction continue to be a cornerstone of innovation and advancement in technology.