Michael Faraday discovers electromagnetic induction

Background. Electromagnetic induction is the production of an electromotive force across an electrical conductor in a changing magnetic field. Michael Faraday is generally credited with discovering this phenomenon in 1831, while Joseph Henry independently recognized it in 1832. Faraday's work established the principles underlying induction, which were later mathematically described as Faraday's law by James Clerk Maxwell.

Faraday's Experiments. Faraday began his series of experiments in 1831, recording in his laboratory diary on 28 October that he was using the great magnet of the Royal Society. His first experimental demonstration occurred on August 29, 1831, involving two wires wrapped around opposite sides of an iron ring, an arrangement similar to a modern toroidal transformer.

Henry's Recognition. Joseph Henry, an American physicist, discovered mutual inductance independently of Michael Faraday. Although Faraday was the first to make the discovery and publish his results, Henry recognized the phenomenon in 1832. Henry also invented a precursor to the electric doorbell in 1831, using an electric wire to ring a bell at a distance.