7.3.1 Electromagnetic (EM) Induction

In both cases, the magnetic field around the coil of wire changes when the coil cuts through the magnetic field. If the magnet is moved back and forth through the coil, the direction of the current changes, which creates an alternating current.

If the conductor is part of a complete circuit, a current will be induced. This induced current will generate a magnetic field that will oppose the change (e.g. the movement of the conductor or the change in magnetic field).

Factors Affecting Electromagnetic Induction

The direction of induced potential difference depends on the magnet's movement. The direction can be reversed by:

• Changing the movement of the conductor relative to the magnetic field

• Changing the direction of the magnetic field The induced potential difference can be increased by:

• Increasing the speed of the relative motion between the conductor and the magnetic field

• Adding more turns to the coil of wire

• Increasing the strength of the magnetic field