Electromagnetic induction is the process by which a changing magnetic field induces an electromotive force (EMF) or voltage in a closed loop of conductor. This phenomenon was first discovered by Michael Faraday in the 19th century. There are two main types of electromagnetic induction: statically induced EMF and dynamically induced EMF. Let's focus on statically induced EMF in this response.
Statically induced EMF occurs when there is a change in the magnetic field through a closed loop of conductor, even if the loop itself is not moving. This change in magnetic field could be due to various factors, such as:
Change in Magnetic Flux: Magnetic flux (Φ) is a measure of the magnetic field passing through a surface. It depends on the strength of the magnetic field and the orientation of the surface relative to the field. Mathematically, magnetic flux is given by Φ = B * A * cos(θ), where B is the magnetic field strength, A is the area of the surface, and θ is the angle between the magnetic field and the surface normal.
When the magnetic flux through a closed loop changes, an EMF is induced in the loop. The induced EMF (ε) is directly proportional to the rate of change of magnetic flux:
ε = -d(Φ) / dt
The negative sign indicates that the direction of the induced EMF opposes the change in magnetic flux, following Lenz's law.
Changing Magnetic Field: If the strength of the magnetic field itself changes, even if the orientation of the loop doesn't change, an EMF will be induced in the loop. For instance, if you move a permanent magnet closer to a closed loop of conductor, the magnetic field strength within the loop changes, leading to an induced EMF.
Changing Area: If the area of the loop changes while the magnetic field remains constant, an EMF is also induced. For example, if you have a loop of wire with a sliding connector that can change the size of the loop, moving the connector changes the area and induces an EMF.
Changing Angle: Similarly, if the angle between the loop and the magnetic field changes, an EMF will be induced. This is because the effective area through which the magnetic flux passes changes as the angle changes.
Statically induced EMF is the basis for many practical applications, including transformers, inductive sensors, and more. It's also a fundamental principle behind how generators and alternators work, converting mechanical energy into electrical energy through the rotation of coils in a magnetic field.
In summary, statically induced EMF occurs due to changes in magnetic flux through a closed loop of conductor, and it's a fundamental concept in the field of electromagnetic induction.