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Induction

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As English scientist Michael Faraday discovered, a magnetic field exerts a force of attraction or repulsion upon the charge carriers (electrons) in the wire causing (inducing) current (electrical energy).  The magnetic field can be from a natural magnet, man-made magnet, or an electromagnet.  There are three configurations in which induction takes place:
  • A steady strength, moving, magnetic field crosses a stationary wire.  - Alternator.
  • A moving wire crosses a stationary, steady strength, magnetic field. - Generator.
  • A stationary, variable strength magnet and a stationary wire. - Wheel Speed Sensor and Reluctor.

The induced current will:

  • Travel in one direction when the magnetic field is approaching the wire
  • Stop when the magnetic field strength vector is perpendicular to the wire.
  • Travel in the other direction as the magnetic field moves away from the wire. 

There are many automotive devices that rely upon magnetic/electromagnetic induction, they are listed in the next sub-sections.

 

Copyright 2008, by the Contributing Authors. Cite/attribute Resource. jfrank. (2008, February 12). Induction. Retrieved November 22, 2009, from WSU Web site: http://ocw.weber.edu/automotive-technology/ausv-1320-automotive-electronics/4-magnetism/induction. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons License. Creative Commons License