Advanced Search
Grade:
Reader Bar Color:
User Guides
Reading Tools

Lessons




Effects of Changing Magnetic Fields

The term electromagnetism comes from the individual component electrical and magnetic forces involved. We've already discussed that a changing electric field generates a magnetic field. Similarly, a changing magnetic field produces an electric field. This is called electromagnetic induction which underlies the operation of electrical generators, induction motors, and transformers.

This wind turbine is a generator that transforms mechanical energy from the wind to generate electricity.  

The principle of electromagnetic induction was discovered in 1831 by Michael Faraday, a British scientist. Faraday was convinced of a unity of electric and magnetic phenomena. It is said that he carried a magnet with him at all times!