Potential Difference

    Potential Difference (Voltage): The potential difference between two points in an electric circuit is the work done per unit charge to move a positive test charge from one point to the other. It is a measure of the electrical potential energy difference between two locations.

• Units: Measured in volts (V).
• Symbol: V or ΔV
• Cause: The potential difference in a circuit is caused by a source of electromotive force (EMF), such as a battery or generator, which creates a separation of charges.

Study Notes

Relationship to Electric Field: Potential difference is closely related to the electric field. The electric field points in the direction of decreasing potential and its magnitude is equal to the rate of change of potential with distance.

Potential Difference in a Circuit: The potential difference across a component in a circuit is equal to the energy used by the charge carriers as they pass through the component. This energy is often converted into other forms, such as heat or light.

Kirchhoff's Voltage Law: The sum of the potential differences around any closed loop in a circuit is zero. This law is a consequence of the conservation of energy.

Measuring Potential Difference: Potential difference is measured using a voltmeter, which is connected in parallel with the component across which the potential difference is to be measured.

Short Notes

• The potential difference is like electrical pressure.
• Charge flows from areas of high potential to low potential (like water flowing downhill).
• Measured in units of volts (V).
• One volt (1V) represents one joule (J) of energy per coulomb (C) of charge.

Point-Based Notes

• Potential Difference: Work done per unit charge to move a charge between two points.
• Voltage: Another term for potential difference.
• Units: Volts (V).
• EMF: The source of potential difference in a circuit.

Here are give you some Multiple Choice Questions for the topic Potential Difference for practicing.