A change of current in one coil that induces voltage in a nearby coil is referred to as what?

The phenomenon where a change of current in one coil induces a voltage in a nearby coil is known as mutual induction. This occurs when the magnetic field created by the current flowing in the first coil interacts with the second coil, leading to a voltage being induced in that second coil. This principle is fundamental to various electrical devices such as transformers, where mutual induction is utilized to transfer energy between coils at different voltage levels.

In mutual induction, the efficiency of the voltage transfer depends on the proximity of the coils, their orientation, the number of turns in each coil, and the nature of the core material if used. The concept distinguishes itself from self-induction, where the induced voltage is generated in the same coil due to a change in its own current. Understanding mutual induction is crucial for linemen because it relates to the safe and efficient design of electrical distribution systems.