Electric motors rely on electromagnetism, the fundamental interaction between electricity and magnetism.
Current Creates Magnetism:
When an electric current flows through a conductor (like a wire), it generates a magnetic field around the conductor. The Ampere's circuital law can describe this:
∮ B ⋅ dl = μ₀ I
Here:
∮ (integral sign) represents a closed loop around the conductor
B is the magnetic field strength (Tesla)
dl is a tiny element of length along the loop
μ₀ (mu-nought) is the permeability of free space (constant value)
I is the current flowing through the conductor (Amperes)
Magnetic Fields Interact:
Electric Motor Design: Creating Rotational Force
EMF and Back EMF: A Balancing Act
Equations in Play: Torque and Power