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Difference Between Self and Mutual Inductance

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What is Self and Mutual Inductance?

Inductance is the ability of a coil to resist a change in current. Self-inductance is when a coil generates an opposing voltage due to its own changing current. Mutual inductance occurs when a changing current in one coil induces voltage in another nearby coil. These principles are fundamental in transformers, motors, and electrical circuits.

Let’s understand the major differences between self and mutual inductance below.


Key Differences Between Self and Mutual Inductance

Aspect

Self-Inductance

Mutual Inductance

Definition

Inductance in a single coil due to its own current change.

Inductance between two coils due to current change in one affecting the other.

Symbol

L

M

Unit

Henry (H)

Henry (H)

Formula

L = $\dfrac{N \Phi}{I}$

M = $\dfrac{N_2 \Phi_2}{I_1}$

Dependency

Depends on coil properties like turns, length, and area.

Depends on both coils’ properties and their proximity.

Example

A solenoid inducing EMF in itself.

Transformer where primary coil induces EMF in the secondary coil.



Important Formulas of Self and Mutual Inductance for NEET

Formula

Description

L = $\dfrac{N \Phi}{I}$

Self-inductance formula

M = $\dfrac{N_2 \Phi_2}{I_1}$

Mutual inductance formula

$\varepsilon = -L \dfrac{dI}{dt}$

EMF due to self-inductance

$\varepsilon = -M \dfrac{dI}{dt}$

EMF due to mutual inductance

$X_L = 2\pi f L$

Inductive reactance formula

$\Phi$ = LI

Magnetic flux formula



Essential Study Materials for NEET UG Success

FAQs on Difference Between Self and Mutual Inductance

1. What is the difference between self and mutual inductance?

Self-inductance happens in one coil due to its own current change, while mutual inductance happens when a changing current in one coil induces voltage in another nearby coil.

2. What is the difference between self-induction and inductance?

Self-induction is a process where a coil opposes its own current change. Inductance is the general property of a coil to resist current changes, including both self and mutual inductance.

3. What is the difference between self-inductance and inductive reactance?

Self-inductance is a property of a coil, while inductive reactance () is the opposition a coil provides to AC current due to its inductance.

4. What is the SI unit of self-inductance?

The SI unit of self-inductance is the Henry (H).

5. What is meant by Lenz's law?

Lenz's law states that the induced EMF always opposes the change in current that caused it. This follows the principle of energy conservation.

6. What is the SI unit of mutual inductance?

The SI unit of mutual inductance is also Henry (H).

7. What is self-inductance with an example?

Self-inductance is when a coil generates an opposing voltage due to its own current change. Example: A solenoid resisting changes in current.

8. What is the difference between AC and DC current?

AC (Alternating Current) changes direction periodically, while DC (Direct Current) flows in one direction only.

9. What is called reactance?

Reactance is the opposition to AC current by inductance or capacitance in a circuit.

10. What is the principle of mutual induction?

When a changing current in one coil creates a changing magnetic field, it induces voltage in a nearby coil. This is used in transformers.

11. What is self-inductance also called?

Self-inductance is also known as the coefficient of self-induction.

12. What are two differences between self-inductance and mutual inductance?

  1. Self-inductance occurs in a single coil, while mutual inductance occurs between two coils.

  2. Self-inductance depends on the coil's properties, while mutual inductance depends on both coils and their distance.

13. What is meant by flux linkage?

Flux linkage is the total magnetic flux multiplied by the number of turns in a coil. It is key in inductance calculations.

14. What is eddy current?

Eddy currents are circular currents induced in a conductor when it is exposed to a changing magnetic field. They cause energy loss as heat.