Summary
Highlights
A square loop of wire is stationary in a magnetic field. When the magnetic flux through the loop increases, according to Faraday's Law, a current will be induced in the loop. The key question is to determine the direction of this induced current.
Considering a counter-clockwise induced current, using the right-hand rule, it would create an induced magnetic field that adds to the existing magnetic field, further increasing the flux. This creates a positive feedback loop where current and flux continuously increase, violating the law of conservation of energy. Therefore, the current cannot flow counter-clockwise.
By deductive reasoning, the induced current must flow in the clockwise direction. Applying the right-hand rule to a clockwise current, the induced magnetic field would oppose the initial increase in flux. This opposition to the change in flux is known as Lenz's Law.
Lenz's Law states that the direction of the induced current is such that it produces a magnetic field that opposes the change in the magnetic flux that created it. This principle is crucial for upholding the law of conservation of energy. If the flux is increasing, the induced magnetic field will try to decrease it, and if the flux is decreasing, the induced magnetic field will try to maintain it or slow its decrease.