🔋college physics i – introduction review

Emf induced in a generator coil

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

EMF induced in a generator coil is the voltage generated due to the relative motion between a magnetic field and the coil. This phenomenon is described by Faraday's Law of Electromagnetic Induction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The magnitude of the induced EMF is directly proportional to the rate of change of magnetic flux through the coil.
  2. Faraday's Law states that $\text{EMF} = -N \frac{d\Phi}{dt}$, where $N$ is the number of turns in the coil and $\Phi$ is the magnetic flux.
  3. The direction of the induced EMF opposes the change in magnetic flux, according to Lenz's Law.
  4. In an AC generator, the rotation speed of the coil affects both frequency and amplitude of the induced EMF.
  5. The peak value of induced EMF can be calculated using $\text{EMF}_{\text{peak}} = NBA\omega$, where $N$ is the number of turns, $B$ is magnetic field strength, $A$ is area, and $\omega$ is angular velocity.
2,589 studying →