# How does change in current induce electromotive force

1. Jul 20, 2009

### jeff1evesque

Statement:
Reviewing the definition of inductance, I found the following definition from Wikipedia:
Question
Can someone explain to me how change in current will induce an electromotive force (one that will oppose the present current)? And what is meant by a magnetic field is inductive?

Thanks,

JL

Last edited: Jul 20, 2009
2. Jul 20, 2009

### queenofbabes

Re: Inductance

Are you familiar with Lenz's Law? A current in a circuit will produce a magnetic field, so when current is changed, magnetic field is changed, and a changing magnetic field will induce an EMF that opposes the change. If I'm not mistaken, this is what people refer to as "back-EMF" in circuits.

3. Jul 20, 2009

### jeff1evesque

Re: Inductance

Is there a picture or video I can see of this, so I can see the direction of the EMF in relation to the magnetic field?

4. Jul 20, 2009

### negitron

Re: Inductance

See the right-hand grip rule which relates current direction through a conductor to magnetic field orientation. Induced EMF will be in opposition to the current flow.