Can Rearranging V=L x di/dt to V=i x dL/dt Describe Voltage Changes in Coils?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the rearrangement of the formula V = L x di/dt to V = i x dL/dt, which describes voltage changes in coils due to varying inductance. Participants confirm that the changing inductance does indeed induce an electromotive force (EMF), regardless of whether the change is due to current or inductance. The conversation highlights the application of this principle in devices like solenoids and capacitors, particularly in the context of flux compression generators. The consensus is that the rearranged formula is valid and can be applied to practical scenarios involving inductors.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic induction principles
  • Familiarity with the formula V = L x di/dt
  • Knowledge of inductance and its relationship to current and voltage
  • Basic concepts of electromotive force (EMF) in electrical circuits
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the applications of flux compression generators in electrical engineering
  • Study the behavior of solenoids and their impact on current flow
  • Explore the mathematical derivation of the product rule of derivatives in electrical contexts
  • Investigate the use of capacitors in audio equipment, such as Wurlitzer electric pianos
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineers, physicists, and students studying electromagnetism or circuit design will benefit from this discussion, particularly those interested in the practical applications of inductance and voltage changes in coils.

hobbs125
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V=L x di/dt is a well known formula used to calculate the voltage across an inductor due to a collapsing magnetic field.

It seems to me that the formula could also be arranged to say:

V = i x dL/dt

Voltage is equal to current times the change in inductance...

If this formula is true would a decreasing (collapsing) inductance produce an opposite polarity across the coil than an increasing inductance?

if I wind two coils together and connect them in a series circuit so they oppose each other. When the pulse goes through the coils it would cause the inductance to change (drop to zero) and induce a voltage across the coil? Could the equation above then be used to calculate the voltage across the coil?

Are there any applications where this is used?
 
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hobbs125 said:
It seems to me that the formula could also be arranged to say:

V = i x dL/dt

Voltage is equal to current times the change in inductance...
[STRIKE]
This is absolutely not true.[/STRIKE]

EDIT: Clearly I misunderstood something!
 
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Absolutely true.

Inductance is defined as flux(linkages) per ampere and the changing flux causes an EMF irrespective of whether it resulted from change in amps or change in inductance.

That's why a solenoid creates a dip in the current as its airgap closes.
 
jim is right. i haven't seen this done with inductors, but i have seen it done with capacitors (in a Wurlitzer electric piano). in both cases, it's a consequence of the product rule of derivatives:

i(t) = C(t)\frac{dv(t)}{dt} + v(t)\frac{dC(t)}{dt}

i think the counterpart for coils is:

v(t) = L(t)\frac{di(t)}{dt} + i(t)\frac{dL(t)}{dt}
 
The explosively pumped flux compression generator is an example of this.
 
Jim Handy,

That's exactly what I was thinking. And I don't see any reason why that rearrangement of the formula is wrong.

The_emi_guy,

Could this be done on a small scale using coils as I described above?
 
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