Electromagnetic Induction

Definition

Electromagnetic induction is the process of generating an electric current in a conductor by changing the magnetic field around it. It occurs when there is relative motion between a conductor and a magnetic field or when there is a change in the magnetic field strength.

Analogy

Imagine you are riding a bicycle through a windy day. As you pedal, the wind pushes against your body, creating resistance and making it harder for you to move forward. Similarly, electromagnetic induction occurs when the changing magnetic field "pushes" against electrons in a conductor, creating an opposing force that generates an electric current.

Related terms

Faraday's Law: This law states that the magnitude of induced electromotive force (emf) in a circuit is directly proportional to the rate of change of magnetic flux through that circuit.

Lenz's Law: Lenz's law states that the direction of an induced current will always be such as to oppose the change producing it.

Transformer: A transformer is a device used to increase or decrease alternating voltages using electromagnetic induction. It consists of two coils wound around an iron core and operates based on Faraday's law.