What is induced magnetic field?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of induced electromotive force (emf) in coils and its relationship with electric fields and current flow in circuits. Participants explore the definitions and implications of emf, particularly in the context of changing magnetic flux and its effects on electric fields within circuits.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the nature of emf in a coil, specifically how it is induced by changing flux linkage and what occurs during this induction.
  • Another participant explains that when emf is present in a circuit, it produces an electric field that causes free charges (electrons) to move, resulting in electric current flow. They provide a mathematical definition of induced emf using a closed loop integral of the electric field.
  • A later reply expresses understanding but seeks clarification on whether the electric field is produced across battery terminals, referencing a teacher's definition of emf as the potential difference between battery terminals.
  • Another participant reiterates the point about electric fields in circuits and emphasizes the distinction between emf and voltage, suggesting that voltage is the potential difference across battery terminals when current flows.
  • A participant cites a previous discussion to clarify that emf refers to the potential available from a voltage source when no current is passing, highlighting the historical context of the term and its potential for confusion in modern usage.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the definitions and implications of emf and voltage, with some agreeing on the distinction between these concepts while others highlight the potential for confusion. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the precise nature of induced emf and its relationship with electric fields in circuits.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the definitions provided, particularly regarding the historical context of the term "emf" and its modern implications. The discussion also reflects varying interpretations of how electric fields are generated in different scenarios, such as in coils versus battery terminals.

Aafia
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What is emf in the coil? As far as I know about emf is that it is potential difference between two terminals of a source but what if it is induced in coil by changing flux linkage. What exactly happen when emf is induced?
 
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When there is EMF in a circuit, electric field is produced across the circuit. Due to this electric field, the free charges (electrons) move and electric current flows.
You can define emf between points ##A## and ##B## as
$$\int^A_B \vec E \cdot \vec{dl}$$
Here line integral of electric field ##E## is evaluated around the circuit from point ##A## to ##B##.
For induced emf, we will consider closed loop integral, i.e, $$\oint_C\vec E \cdot \vec{dl}$$
where ##\vec E## is electric field, ##\vec{dl}## is an infinitesimal line element on the loop (i.e, the coil) ##C##.
Have I answered your question?
 
arpon said:
When there is EMF in a circuit, electric field is produced across the circuit. Due to this electric field, the free charges (electrons) move and electric current flows.
Thank you for the reply!
This is making sense to me. But does this electric field is produced across battery terminals because what my teacher told me is

"emf is the potential difference between positive and negative terminal of the battery"
 
Aafia said:
Thank you for the reply!
This is making sense to me. But does this electric field is produced across battery terminals because what my teacher told me is

"emf is the potential difference between positive and negative terminal of the battery"
I meant that electric field is produced in the circuit. Just look at this figure:
Untitled.png

I have shown the direction of electric field. Please do not hesitate to ask if you have any further question.
 
Aafia said:
"emf is the potential difference between positive and negative terminal of the battery"
More correctly, the Voltage is the potential difference across the terminals of the battery or other PSU
You cannot have a "force" unless something is moving ie. till the battery is connected to a circuit and the current starts to flow

to quote @sophiecentaur from another recent thread

Electromotive Force is a term from way back before anyone had a clue about what Electricity is. It is an exception which has to be used with care. "emf" is a term that refers to the Potential available from a voltage source when no current passes. It is unfortunate that it has passed into modern usage because it does nothing but cause confusion - in threads like this one. Voltage is not a force. Energy and Force are two different things.
Dave
 

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