Electromagnetic Induction: How Magnetic Fields Create Electricity
Explore how electromagnetic induction creates electricity. Learn about Michael Faraday’s 1831 experiment and how changing magnetic fields generate current.
Best quote from Electromagnetic Induction: How Magnetic Fields Create Electricity
Electromagnetic induction is all about the rate of change; if you vary a magnetic field over time, you generate an electric field that drives current. This 'pushback' from nature, known as Lenz’s Law, acts like a physical form of inertia, where the induced current always flows in a direction that opposes the change.
This audio lesson was created by a BeFreed community member
Electromagnetic Induction • Faraday’s Law of Induction • Lenz’s Law • Motional emf • Induced electric fields • Eddy currents • Inductance (self and mutual) • RL circuits • Energy stored in magnetic fields
![[PDF] Inductance, RL Circuits - NJIT](https://d1y2du6z1jfm9e.cloudfront.net/assets/podcast/green.png)
Frequently Asked Questions
Electromagnetic induction is the process where a changing magnetic field generates an electric current in a conductor, such as a loop of copper wire. As discussed in the podcast, simply placing a magnet near a wire does nothing; the magnet must be in motion relative to the coil to create electricity. This fundamental principle of physics shows that electricity and magnetism are closely linked, forming the basis for modern technology like power grids and wireless chargers.
Michael Faraday is credited with discovering electromagnetic induction in 1831. Before his revolutionary experiment, scientists believed that electricity and magnetism were entirely separate forces. Faraday proved they were two sides of the same coin by demonstrating that a battery isn't always necessary to produce a current. His work showed that varying a magnetic field over time naturally generates an electric field, a discovery that changed the course of modern science and engineering.
Faraday’s experiment used a galvanometer to measure electric current while moving a magnet near a coil of wire. He observed that the galvanometer needle only moved when the magnet was in motion. If the magnet remained still, the needle stayed at zero, proving that the presence of a magnetic field alone isn't enough to create electricity. The experiment highlighted that the 'change' in the magnetic field is the essential factor required to induce an electric current.
Discover more
Boost magnetic communication
Magnetic communication is the cornerstone of leadership, sales, networking, and meaningful relationships. This learning plan is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their influence, leaders wanting to inspire teams, entrepreneurs building connections, or anyone looking to make a lasting impression in social and business interactions.
Learning electrical
This learning plan provides a comprehensive bridge from theoretical physics to practical engineering applications. It is ideal for aspiring electricians, engineering students, or hobbyists looking to master everything from basic wiring to complex industrial control systems.
Learn basic physics using created content
This learning plan provides a structured path from classical mechanics to the frontiers of modern science. It is ideal for curious minds and students looking to build a solid foundation in how the universe functions at every scale.
Learn physics
This learning plan provides a structured journey from classical foundations to the cutting edge of modern theory. It is ideal for curious minds and students seeking to understand the fundamental laws that govern our universe from the subatomic to the cosmic scale.
master AC and DC theory.
This comprehensive guide bridges the gap between basic physics and advanced industrial power systems. It is essential for aspiring electricians, engineers, or hobbyists who want to master the dual nature of modern electricity and its practical applications.
learn how to be magnetic
Personal magnetism is a learnable skill that transforms how others perceive and respond to you. This learning plan benefits professionals seeking advancement, individuals wanting to expand their social influence, and anyone looking to develop genuine charisma that attracts opportunities and deepens relationships.
Electrical engineering
This plan provides a comprehensive foundation for aspiring engineers and tech professionals looking to master the physical and theoretical laws of electricity. It bridges the gap between basic circuitry and advanced modern applications like smart grids and signal processing.
Master Tesla-level physics and math thinking
This plan bridges the gap between classical electromagnetic theory and the visionary mental frameworks used by Nikola Tesla. It is designed for aspiring physicists, engineers, and innovators who want to transcend standard problem-solving and develop a deeper, more intuitive grasp of the physical universe.
From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
