Unit 7: Electromagnetic Induction and Inductance

Introduction to Unit 7

Almost every modern device or machine, from computers to power drills, has an electric circuit at its heart. We learned that electromotive force (emf) is required for current to flow in a circuit. For that purpose, we took the source of emf to be a battery. But for the vast variety of electric devices that are used in industries and in the home, the emf is not a battery but an electric generator. Such generators produce electric energy by converting other forms of energy into electrical energy. In most cases, this energy conversion is done through the phenomenon known as electromagnetic induction.  In this section, we will learn about induced emf.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this section, you should be able to

• Explain the phenomenon of electromagnetic induction;
• Use Faraday’s law to calculate induced electromotive forces and currents;
• Describe how induction is consistent with energy conservation, and find the direction of induced currents;
• Explain inductance, and analyze simple circuits involving inductors;
• Recognize the broader meaning of Faraday’s law as it relates to electric and magnetic fields.

Learning Activities

E-tivity 7.1: Read the attached handouts

E-tivity 7.2: Post any question or challenge you faced while reading the handouts. You are also invited to react on posted topics by your colleague(s) or by e-moderator(s)

E-tivity 7.3: After reading the handouts attached under this unit, attempt the questions of the quiz

E-tivity 7.4: After completing this unit (and the previous ones), attempt the questions of assignment #3