In the left-hand rule for voltage generation, what does the "thumb" represent?

In the left-hand rule for voltage generation, the "thumb" represents the direction of conductor movement. This rule is used in the context of electromagnetic induction, where a conductor moves through a magnetic field, generating voltage. According to this rule, if you position your left hand with the fingers pointing in the direction of the magnetic field and your palm facing the direction of the current flow, the thumb will point in the direction of the movement of the conductor.

This is crucial for understanding how mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy, such as in generators. The movement of the conductor through the magnetic field is what induces a voltage, making it essential for linemen to grasp this concept when working with electrical generation and distribution systems.