What is electromagnetic induction?

Electromagnetic induction refers specifically to the process wherein an electromotive force (EMF) is generated in a conductor when it experiences a change in magnetic flux, typically through movement within a magnetic field. This principle was famously discovered by Michael Faraday and is foundational in the field of electromagnetism.

When a conductor, such as a wire, moves through a magnetic field or when the magnetic field around a stationary conductor changes, an electric current can be induced in that conductor. This principle is vital for the operation of many electrical devices, including generators and transformers, where mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy through this induction process.

The understanding of electromagnetic induction highlights the relationship between electricity and magnetism, explaining how motion can lead to the creation of electrical energy without direct electrical contact. This concept is essential in many technologies and applications, emphasizing the interplay between magnetic fields and electric currents.