The diagram shows an inductor that is part of a circuit. The direction of the emf induced in the inductor is indicated. Which of the following is possible?
A) The current is constant and rightward
B) The current is constant and leftward
C) The current is increasing and rightward
D) The current is increasing and leftward
E) None of the above

Question

The diagram shows an inductor that is part of a circuit. The direction of the emf induced in the inductor is indicated. Which of the following is possible? 
A) The current is constant and rightward 
B) The current is constant and leftward 
C) The current is increasing and rightward 
D) The current is increasing and leftward 
E) None of the above

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The direction of the induced emf is opposing the change in current. As the current is increasing in the clockwise direction, the induced emf will create a counterclockwise current to oppose it. Thus, the current must be increasing in the counterclockwise direction, which is leftward.

The Diagram Shows an Inductor That Is Part of a Circuit