Electromagnetic induction in terms of the Maxwell force instead of magnetic flux

The conventional treatment of induced EMFs in terms of magnetic flux leads to problems with the concepts of “flux-cutting” and “flux-linking” which have attracted much discussion and controversy, particularly when applied to devices with moving parts. Maxwell´s own “general equations” tend to be ignored. They did not include the “Maxwell” field equation relating induced E fields to changes in the flux density, B, but developed an alternative view based on the magnetic vector-potential A. The practical role of A in the computation of EMFs and inductances suggests that it has corresponding conceptual advantages, including the relative simplicity of the A field of a current element. B is viewed as a symbol for the differential of A, thus reversing their customary roles, and removing the difficulties caused by the conventional treatment. It is shown that the use of A to describe the magnetic effects of the source currents helps to provide a clearer view of induction, and resolve the various problems and apparent anomalies. The relativistic relationship between the magnetic and electric fields is described most simply in terms of the potentials, and answers the much-debated question of the meaning of motion when applied to a uniform B field