What is the difference between inductive coupling and magnetic coupling?

AI Thread Summary
Inductive coupling is a method of wireless power transfer that can handle large amounts of power but suffers from low efficiency over long distances. Magnetic coupling is often suggested as a solution to improve energy transfer efficiency. Both terms are closely related, as they involve mutual induction where a change in current in one conductor induces voltage in another. The key distinction lies in the interpretation of "inductive," which typically refers to coils, while magnetic coupling can involve other configurations like magnets. Understanding these nuances is essential for grasping the broader concepts of induced voltage across various contexts.
nitzz
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Hi
I was learning about wireless power transfer. It is stated that inductive coupling can be use to transfer large amount of power. But efficiency is poor if distance is large. The reccomended solution for this problem is energy transfer through magnetic coupling.
May I know what is the difference between magnetic and inductive coupling?
Thanks. :)
 
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Hello, where did you read this? I was having a hard time trying to think of the difference,
then found this on Wikipedia:

"In electrical engineering, two conductors are referred to as mutual-inductively coupled or magnetically coupled when they are configured such that change in current flow through one wire induces a voltage across the ends of the other wire through electromagnetic induction."

So they are the same thing. As far as I know you cannot induce a voltage if the magnetic field, usually from a coil/antenna, isn't varying. If I HAD to come up with a difference, interpreting "inductive" as using only coils, then two face to face magnets would be magnetically coupled. One would be turned by a motor, while the other (connected to a generator) would follow. I don't see that working at long distances though :).
 
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Thanks for the reply. :)
(Actually i have read it in my lecture note. )
 
You should note the related term "induced" has a wider meaning.

We talk of

Electrostatically induced voltage

Magnetically induced voltage

Thermally induced voltage

Mechanically induced voltage
 
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