induction coil

noun

Electricity.

1. a transformer for producing high-voltage alternating current from a low-voltage direct current, consisting essentially of two concentric coils with a common soft-iron core, a primary coil with relatively few windings of heavy wire, and a secondary coil with many turns of fine wire. Excitation of the primary coil by rapidly interrupted or variable current induces high voltage in the secondary coil.

induction coil

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: coil. a transformer for producing a high voltage from a low voltage. It consists of a cylindrical primary winding of few turns, a concentric secondary winding of many turns, and often a common soft-iron core

induction coil

1. An electrical device consisting of a single coil of conductive material, often surrounding a metallic core, designed to establish a strong magnetic field around the coil. Changes in the current flow through the coil cause fluctuations in the magnetic field that induce a voltage across the coil. Induction coils have many applications, especially in circuits that tune to signals of specific frequencies, as in radios. The ability of an induction coil to induce a voltage is called inductance, and is measured in henrys.

2. Compare capacitor

3. A type of transformer that changes a low-voltage direct current to a high-voltage alternating current. Induction coils are used for many purposes, especially as spark coils for firing spark plugs in automobile engines and starting oil burners.

Word History and Origins

Origin of induction coil¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

The embedded serpentine induction coils in the magnetoelastic layers help generate high-fidelity electrical signals for sensing purposes.

Read more on Science Daily

It's called induction welding, and it uses an induction coil to create an electromagnetic field that heats the metal for welding.

Read more on Science Daily

And a magnetic induction coil controls a metal plate that conducts heat away from the electrode to rapidly cool it down and shut off the scent.

Read more on Scientific American

An induction coil safely boils water, a centralized milk vessel keeps cream cold, and an auto-dimming digital display sets both brewing and alarm schedules.

Read more on Seattle Times

A: For readers who missed it, Kibben wrote in asking about cellphones that are compatible with induction coils, the technology employed in wireless charging.

Read more on Seattle Times