1 Answer
Lenz's Law is a principle in electromagnetism that states that the direction of an induced current (or electromotive force) in a conductor will always oppose the change that caused it. In simple terms, it means that nature "fights back" against the change in magnetic flux.
Here's a basic breakdown:
Example:
This is essentially a form of "negative feedback" that prevents sudden changes in the system, aligning with the conservation of energy principle.
Lenz's Law is also a consequence of Faraday's Law of Induction, which describes how a changing magnetic field creates an electric current.
Here's a basic breakdown:
- Magnetic Flux: This is the measure of the magnetic field passing through a given area. If the magnetic field in an area changes, it can induce a current in a conductor placed within that area.
- Induced Current: When the magnetic flux through a conductor changes (due to the movement of a magnet, for example), an electric current is induced in the conductor.
- Opposition: According to Lenz's Law, the direction of the induced current will always work in such a way that it creates a magnetic field opposing the change in the original magnetic flux. This is a consequence of the conservation of energy.
Example:
- If you move a magnet towards a coil, the magnetic flux through the coil increases. According to Lenz's Law, the induced current in the coil will create its own magnetic field that opposes the approach of the magnet.
- Similarly, if you pull the magnet away from the coil, the magnetic flux decreases, and the induced current will create a magnetic field that tries to keep the magnet from moving away.
This is essentially a form of "negative feedback" that prevents sudden changes in the system, aligning with the conservation of energy principle.
Lenz's Law is also a consequence of Faraday's Law of Induction, which describes how a changing magnetic field creates an electric current.