The Ski Lift Model
⚡ The Ski Lift Model
Potential difference (p.d.) is the energy transferred per unit charge as charges pass through a component.
Earn the mark scheme marks
🧠 Memory Aid
For V = E/Q — the Ski Lift:
The Voltage is the Elevation (energy) given to each Quantity of charge (coulomb). The battery is the ski lift that raises each coulomb to a higher "energy height."
Voltmeter vs Ammeter connection — "V is a visitor, A is in the action":
The Voltmeter is a Visitor — it stands alongside (parallel), watching what happens across a component. The Ammeter is in the Action — it stands in the flow itself (series), part of the circuit.
Series vs Parallel voltage rule — "Series Shares, Parallel Pairs":
In a series circuit, the voltage is shared (split) between components. In a parallel circuit, every branch gets the same voltage as the supply.
Now try it yourself
Quiz · Question 1 of 14
Which of the following is the correct definition of potential difference?
Tap an answer to check it
This topic in real past papers
Every real exam question we've found on potential difference, with a full worked answer.