Induction

Definition

Induction is the process by which an electric charge is redistributed on a material due to the presence of a nearby charged object without direct contact. This phenomenon occurs in conductors and can create an induced charge on the surface.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Induction involves the separation of charges within a conductor when exposed to an external electric field.
2. During induction, electrons in a conductor move towards or away from the inducing charge creating regions of positive and negative charge.
3. A grounded conductor will transfer electrons to or from Earth during induction, neutralizing one type of charge.
4. Induced charges are temporary and will dissipate once the inducing charge is removed.
5. Faraday's Ice Pail experiment demonstrated that induced charges reside on the surface of conductors.

Review Questions

• What happens to the distribution of electrons in a conductor during induction?
• How does grounding affect a conductor undergoing induction?
• Why do induced charges disappear after removing the external charged object?

Related terms

Conductor:

A material that allows free movement of electric charges, often metals like copper or aluminum.

Insulator:

A material that resists the flow of electric charges, such as rubber or glass.

Electric Field:

$$\text{A region around a charged object where other charged objects experience a force. The strength and direction are represented by electric field lines.}$$