Electromagnetic Induction — GCSE Physics Revision
Revise Electromagnetic Induction for GCSE Physics. Step-by-step explanation, worked examples, common mistakes and exam-style practice aligned to AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, CCEA, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP.
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Go to TransformersWhat is Electromagnetic Induction?
Electromagnetic induction is the process of generating a potential difference (and a current if there is a complete circuit) in a conductor by changing the magnetic field around it. This can be done by moving the conductor through a magnetic field, or by moving a magnet relative to the conductor. This is the principle behind electrical generators.
Board notes: A Higher Tier topic for all major GCSE Physics boards (AQA, Edexcel, OCR). It is the basis for understanding generators and transformers.
Step-by-step explanationWorked example
A bar magnet is pushed into a coil of wire. A voltmeter connected to the coil shows a reading. What is this effect called and what happens if the magnet is held still inside the coil? Solution: This is electromagnetic induction. If the magnet is held still, the magnetic field is no longer changing, so the induced potential difference and current fall to zero.
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Common mistakes
- 1Confusing electromagnetic induction with the motor effect. Induction creates a current from motion; the motor effect creates motion from a current.
- 2Thinking that a steady magnetic field can induce a current. The magnetic field must be changing for induction to occur.
- 3Not knowing the factors that affect the size of the induced potential difference. It can be increased by moving the wire/magnet faster, using a stronger magnet, or using a coil with more turns.
Electromagnetic Induction exam questions
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Step-by-step method
Step-by-step explanation
4 steps · Worked method for Electromagnetic Induction
Core concept
Electromagnetic induction is the process of generating a potential difference (and a current if there is a complete circuit) in a conductor by changing the magnetic field around it. This can be done b…
Frequently asked questions
What is Faraday's Law of Induction?
Faraday's Law states that the size of the induced electromotive force (e.m.f.) is proportional to the rate of change of magnetic flux. In simpler terms, the faster you change the magnetic field, the bigger the induced voltage.
What is Lenz's Law?
Lenz's Law gives the direction of the induced current. It states that the induced current will always flow in a direction that opposes the change that produced it.