Lenz's Law states that the direction of an induced current in a conductor by a changing magnetic field will be such that it creates a magnetic field opposing the change. This is a consequence of the conservation of energy.
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Lenz's Law can be mathematically expressed as $\mathcal{E} = -\frac{d\Phi_B}{dt}$, where $\mathcal{E}$ is the induced electromotive force and $\Phi_B$ is the magnetic flux.
It explains why electromagnetic induction always opposes the cause producing it, which aligns with Newton's third law.
Lenz's Law helps determine the direction of induced currents in applications like electric generators and transformers.
The negative sign in Faraday’s Law of Induction formula indicates the opposition described by Lenz's Law.
This law ensures that energy in electromagnetic systems is conserved by opposing changes in magnetic flux.
Review Questions
What does Lenz's Law state about the direction of an induced current?
How does Lenz's Law relate to the conservation of energy?
Why is there a negative sign in Faraday’s Law of Induction equation?
Related terms
Faraday’s Law of Induction: A fundamental law stating that a change in magnetic flux through a loop induces an electromotive force (EMF) proportional to the rate of change.