NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

What is the result of passing a conductor through a stationary magnetic field?

1. The conductor will heat up

2. The magnet will induce a small voltage into the wire

3. The magnetic field will collapse

4. The conductor will short circuit

The correct answer is: The magnet will induce a small voltage into the wire

Passing a conductor through a stationary magnetic field induces a voltage in the conductor due to the principle of electromagnetic induction. This phenomenon occurs according to Faraday’s Law of Electromagnetic Induction, which states that a change in magnetic flux through a loop or coil of wire induces an electromotive force (EMF) in the conductor. In this scenario, even though the magnetic field itself is stationary, if the conductor moves through it, the motion relative to the magnetic field results in a change in magnetic flux experienced by the conductor. This leads to the generation of a small voltage, commonly referred to as induced voltage. Because voltage is generated, the conductor can potentially drive a current if it is part of a complete circuit. This relates directly to the statement that a magnet will induce a small voltage into the wire. Understanding this principle is vital in applications such as electric generators where mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy through the motion of conductors in magnetic fields. The other options do not accurately describe the result of this action. For example, heating up a conductor typically requires the presence of current, and while induced voltage can drive current, the presence of a magnetic field alone does not inherently cause heating. Additionally, while the magnetic field may interact with the conductor