What Does "Distributed" Mean in Faraday's Law?

In summary, Faraday explains that a variation in magnetic flux creates an induced emf that creates eddy currents in a material. This is known as the electromagnetic field, which has both classical and quantum explanations. In the case of a transformer core, there is no electric charge, but there is a potential difference between points on the core and in surrounding wires due to the magnetic field induced by the electric field. This potential difference may not be constant, but it is necessary for AC mains distribution. Additionally, even a long wire placed on the ground can experience a potential difference due to the Earth's magnetic field inducing an electric current.
  • #1
jaumzaum
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Faraday says that a variation of magnetic flux generates an induced emf distributed by the material, which creates eddy currents. I want to know and understand what this "distributed" means. Do we have a constant potential difference between every 2 points of the object? (is this possible?)
 
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  • #2
Basically magnetic field and electric field is like the two sides of a coin they come hand in hand hence the name "electromagnetic field".
Em field can be explained both in classical terms based on the real life phenomenon which it exerts on conductors, transformers etc. and in quantum terms, you have to choose based on your level of knowledge which explanation suits you best.

If by the "material " you mean a transformer core then yes the core itself isn't electrically charged as it is a loop of metal that let's the magnetic field lines to be distributed upon, but if you measure the secondary winding at any given place you will notice a potential difference which you will recognize as voltage, place a wire along a live wire connected to your mains and even in that wire there will be a small amount of voltage as the live wire carrying the ac mains makes an em field around it which then induces another em field in that not connected wire that will run parallel to the live one and you will see potential difference on that one, a small one but still.

By constant potential difference, that depends whether the magnetic field which in turn is induced by electric one will be constant as if the potential difference will minimize in the first wire also you will notice the same thing in other placed near to the first.
But to answer your question yes we have a constant potential difference and if it wouldn't be possible no AC mains distribution system would be possible either.

P.S. if you would place a really long wire in a straight line across miles of land you would see a potential difference too as the Earth's magnetic field would induce electric current in that wire.
 

FAQ: What Does "Distributed" Mean in Faraday's Law?

1. What does "distributed" mean in Faraday's Law?

In Faraday's Law, "distributed" refers to the concept that an induced voltage can be created across a conductor by changing the magnetic field in a region surrounding the conductor. This induced voltage is distributed throughout the conductor, rather than being concentrated at a single point.

2. How does the concept of distribution apply to Faraday's Law?

The concept of distribution is essential to understanding Faraday's Law because it explains how a changing magnetic field can induce a voltage across a conductor. By distributing the induced voltage throughout the conductor, the electric field created by the voltage can cause a current to flow.

3. Why is distribution important in Faraday's Law?

Distribution is important in Faraday's Law because it allows for the creation of an induced voltage and current, which are the basis for many electric and electronic devices. Without the concept of distribution, Faraday's Law would not be able to explain how electricity can be generated.

4. How does the concept of distribution impact the applications of Faraday's Law?

The concept of distribution has a significant impact on the applications of Faraday's Law. It allows for the generation of electricity in power plants, the operation of motors and generators, and the functioning of many electronic devices. The understanding of distribution also plays a crucial role in designing and optimizing these applications.

5. Can you provide an example of how distribution is used in Faraday's Law?

One example of how distribution is used in Faraday's Law is in the construction of an electric generator. In a generator, a coil of wire is rotated in a magnetic field, causing a changing magnetic flux to pass through the coil. This changing magnetic flux induces a voltage across the coil, which is then distributed throughout the wire, creating an electric current. This current can then be used to power homes and businesses.

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