How does a magnetic field induce an electric current?

In summary, the conversation discusses how a magnetic field can induce an electric current in a wire. The charges in the wire experience a force due to the movement and direction of the field, causing them to move in a circular path. This circular motion can produce a current if the charges are not restricted to a straight line. However, in most cases, eddy currents are unwanted and are suppressed through the use of laminations in metal objects.
  • #1
Biker
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Trying to understand how a magnetic field induces an electric current

Suppose you have a wire in the magnetic field like this:
f9a41f03929f4964a30fe4895ffcb5e1.png

If you move the wire with a velocity of V to the left. Then the magnetic field should exert a force on the wire which ultimately on the charges in the wire. According to the right hand rule, It should be to the top of the page.

From what I learned particles in magnetic field move in circular or spiral path ( not sure if there is more).. So let's go back to our case. The charges should have a circular path not in a straight line. So how is a current produced with a circular motion moving charges?
 
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  • #2
There are many diagrams about this (http://www.electrical4u.com/fleming-left-hand-rule-and-fleming-right-hand-rule/).
Biker said:
Then the magnetic field should exert a force on the wire which ultimately on the charges in the wire.
This is the wrong way round, actually. The movement and the field primarily cause the charges to be deflected. Because the wire is the only path they can take, they go in a straight line but they would move on a circular path if they were free to move.
The Eddy Currents that occur when an alternating field is applied to a metal (saucepan over an induction hob, for instance) do actually go in circular paths. In most other instances, this is a disadvantage and lumps of metal are often split up into laminations to suppress the formation of these eddy currents.
 
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1. What is electromagnetic induction?

Electromagnetic induction is the process of generating an electric current in a conductor by moving it through a magnetic field or by changing the magnetic field around it. This phenomenon was first discovered by Michael Faraday in 1831.

2. How does electromagnetic induction work?

Electromagnetic induction works based on Faraday's law of induction, which states that when a conductor moves through a magnetic field or when the magnetic field around a conductor changes, a voltage is induced in the conductor. This voltage then causes an electric current to flow.

3. What are the applications of electromagnetic induction?

Electromagnetic induction has numerous practical applications, such as in generators and transformers, where it is used to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy and vice versa. It is also used in devices like electric motors, induction cooktops, and wireless charging technologies.

4. What factors affect the strength of electromagnetic induction?

The strength of electromagnetic induction depends on several factors, including the strength of the magnetic field, the speed at which the conductor moves, and the angle between the conductor and the magnetic field. Additionally, the material and length of the conductor can also affect the strength of induction.

5. How is electromagnetic induction related to electricity?

Electromagnetic induction is closely related to electricity because it is the process by which electricity is generated in power plants and distributed through power lines to our homes and businesses. It also plays a crucial role in the functioning of electronic devices and technologies that we use in our daily lives.

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