Self induction in a straight wire

AI Thread Summary
A decreasing direct current in a straight wire can produce self-induced current, despite the absence of a loop, due to the principles of inductance. Changes in current generate a magnetic field, which reacts against the change according to Lenz's law. This self-induction aims to supply additional current to resist the decrease, raising questions about the energy source for this process. The energy for self-induction is derived from the magnetic field that stores energy as the current initially ramps up. Thus, even in a straight wire, self-induction occurs and plays a crucial role in the dynamics of changing currents.
jpo
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Direct current I in a straight wire is decreasing with time. Let's assume dI/dt is large. Will such change produce self-induced current in the direction of I?


If Lenz's law is an equivalent of Newton's 3rd law, how come changes in straight wire meet no resistance?
 
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It seems to me that the system has to react against the change. Is this true?
 
i think that is where inductivity comes from or the resistance of change of current. and you need a large field to push the current throw the wire.
 
My question is will there be such inductance. I mean, there is no loop and no flux through it
 
yes. you don't need a loop. a strait wire will do the trick.
 
any change in current through any object, whether it be a coil or a straight wire, will produce a magnetic field (inductance). The relationship of inductance to the change in current is calculated by lenz's law
 
Current decreases with time. Self induction has to presumably supply extra Amps to resist the change. Where will the energy com from to do all this?
 
jpo said:
Current decreases with time. Self induction has to presumably supply extra Amps to resist the change. Where will the energy com from to do all this?

The magnetic field stores energy. This energy was put there as the current ramped up.
 
mrspeedybob,
this seems very reasonable, thank you!
 
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