Electromagnetic induction explained in an easy-to-understand way

What is electromagnetic induction?

Every permanent magnet generates a constant magnetic field in its immediate vicinity.

• If this magnet is moved in any way, the so-called magnetic flux density changes. Put simply, this means that the magnetic field changes at this moment.
• If there is an electrical conductor in the magnetic field of this magnet, electricity is generated in this when the magnetic field changes. The so-called electromagnetic induction is based on this fact.
• This electromagnetic induction can be demonstrated, for example, by the fact that on a coil, which is located in a changing magnetic field, an electrical voltage is created which can be measured is.

For example, which devices are based on this induction?

The function of numerous electrical devices, which would not function without electromagnetic induction, is based on this fact.

• It is particularly obvious, of course, to use electromagnetic induction to generate an electrical voltage. Numerous devices have been developed for this purpose, which work according to this basic principle. Simple examples of this are generators that are located in power plants, the alternator in the car or the dynamo on the bicycle.
• Another simple example of an induction application is the transformer. Here an alternating voltage is applied to a coil, which in turn generates an alternating magnetic field in the iron core of the transformer. A second coil is also located on this iron core. As a result of the induction, an alternating voltage is also generated (induced) in this second coil.
• An electric motor works a little differently in that an electrical voltage is applied to it, which in turn results in a magnetic field inside the motor. However, it can also be used the other way around for most designs. If, for example, the axis of a DC motor is rotated, an electrical voltage is generated at its connections. Again, this is only possible with the help of induction.