Question

Use Lenz’s law to determine the direction of induced current in the situations described by Fig. 6.16:

1. A wire of irregular shape turning into a circular shape
2. A circular loop being deformed into a narrow straight wire

Answer 1

In accordance with Lenz's law, any induced current will act to counteract the change in magnetic flux within a loop.

1. When the area of the loop is increasing over time, the magnetic flux through it also increases. Consequently, the induced current will generate a magnetic field opposing the change, as dictated by the right-hand rule. In this case, the current flows in a clockwise direction.
2. On the other hand, when the area of the loop is diminishing as time progresses, the magnetic flux through the loop decreases. Therefore, the induced current will create a magnetic field in the same direction as the change in flux, following the right-hand rule. This results in a current direction described as - adcb.