A circular conducting loop is placed in a region where a uniform magnetic field passes perpendicularly through its plane. If the magnitude of this magnetic field begins to decrease steadily over time, what will be the immediate consequence within the loop?
Show answer and explanation
The answer
Correct answer: D. An electromotive force and an induced current will be generated within the loop.
Tested concept: Faraday's law
Explanation
Faraday's Law of Induction states that a changing magnetic flux through a conducting loop will induce an electromotive force (EMF) in the loop. Since the magnetic field's magnitude is decreasing over time, the magnetic flux through the loop is changing, which directly induces an EMF. If the loop is a closed circuit, this induced EMF will drive an induced current through the conductor. The direction of this current would be determined by Lenz's Law, opposing the change in flux. Distractor 1 is incorrect because a changing magnetic field, even with a stationary loop, induces an EMF. Distractor 2 is incorrect because a changing magnetic flux induces an EMF and thus a current, not just a magnetic force without current. Distractor 3 is incorrect because while an induced current can cause heating due to resistance, the primary and immediate consequence is the generation of EMF and current, not just heating without a sustained current.
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