Lenz's law

British  

/ ˈlɛntsɪz /

noun

1. physics the principle that the direction of the current induced in a circuit by a changing magnetic field is such that the magnetic field produced by this current will oppose the original field

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Lenz's law Scientific  

/ lĕnt′sĭz /

1. A principle stating that an electric current, induced by a source such as a changing magnetic field, always creates a counterforce opposing the force inducing it. This law explains such phenomena as diamagnetism and the electrical properties of inductors. The law is named after its discoverer, German physicist Heinrich Lenz (1804–1865).

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Etymology

Origin of Lenz's law

C19: named after H. F. E. Lenz (1804–65), German physicist

Example Sentences

The minus means that the emf creates a current I and magnetic field B that oppose the change in flux ΔΦ —this is known as Lenz’s law.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

Then use Faraday’s law, Lenz’s law, and RHR-1 to show that magnetic force opposes motion.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

To find the direction of the induced field, the direction of the current, and the polarity of the induced emf, we apply Lenz’s law as explained in Faraday's Law of Induction: Lenz's Law.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

Lenz’s law tells us the emf opposes any change, so that the input emf that powers the motor will be opposed by the motor’s self-generated emf, called the back emf of the motor.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

When, for example, current through a coil is increased, the magnetic field and flux also increase, inducing a counter emf, as required by Lenz’s law.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015