How does induction work? Easily explained

At least since mobile phones can be charged inductively, the question arises how induction works. You can find out everything you need to know in this practical tip.

How does induction work?

An induction creates an electric field by changing the magnetic flux density. This may sound complicated at first, but it is not.

• Imagine a horseshoe magnet. The magnetic field lines run parallel between the two "arms" of the magnet.
• Now run a cable, which is connected to a voltage measuring device, into the magnetic field. If you now move the cable back and forth perpendicular to the field lines, you will see a voltage on the measuring device.
• Since you bring the cable into a magnetic field at a certain speed, you also bring the electrons into the field at a speed. The so-called Lorentz force acts on them. The electrons now collect at one end of the cable, creating a potential difference, i.e. a voltage.
• You can better remember this with the left hand rule. To do this, stretch out your thumb. You have to extend your index finger vertically. And again stretch your middle finger perpendicular to it. The thumb points in the direction in which the electrons are moving. The index finger points in the direction of the magnetic field (from north to south). The middle finger shows you the distraction caused by the Lorentz force.
• As a result, there is a certain magnetic field around each line through which current flows. With inductive charging, the conductor is usually laid to a coil so that the current can be "transmitted".
• There is also the right-fist rule. To do this, spread your thumb and pretend that you are wrapping an invisible pole with your other fingers. The thumb points in the direction of the electron current. The other fingers indicate the magnetic field.

In the next practical tip, we will explain what gamma radiation is.