1. What is Mutual Inductance Between Two Coils?

Definition: Mutual inductance (M) is the property of two coils that determines the electromotive force (voltage) induced in one coil when the current in the other coil changes.

Purpose: This calculator helps electrical engineers and electronics designers determine the mutual inductance between two coupled inductors.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( M \) — Mutual inductance (henrys)
• \( k \) — Coupling coefficient (0 to 1)
• \( L1 \) — Inductance of first coil (henrys)
• \( L2 \) — Inductance of second coil (henrys)

Explanation: The mutual inductance is proportional to the geometric mean of the two inductances and the coupling coefficient between them.

3. Importance of Mutual Inductance

Details: Mutual inductance is crucial in transformer design, wireless power transfer, inductive coupling, and many other electromagnetic applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the coupling coefficient (0 for no coupling, 1 for perfect coupling), and the inductances of both coils. All values must be positive, with k between 0 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the coupling coefficient (k)?
A: It's a dimensionless number between 0 and 1 that represents the fraction of magnetic flux that links both coils.

Q2: What's a typical value for k?
A: For loosely coupled coils, k might be 0.01-0.3. For tightly coupled transformers, k is typically 0.95-0.99.

Q3: Can mutual inductance be greater than self-inductance?
A: No, mutual inductance cannot exceed the geometric mean of the two self-inductances (M ≤ √(L1×L2)).

Q4: What affects the coupling coefficient?
A: Distance between coils, their orientation, core material, and winding geometry all affect k.

Q5: How is mutual inductance measured?
A: It can be measured using an LCR meter or calculated from voltage and current measurements.