This how it works covers How It Works: What "Potential" Actually Means within Potential Difference for GCSE Physics. Revise Potential Difference in Electricity for GCSE Physics with 14 exam-style questions and 30 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 6 of 14 in this topic. Use this how it works to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
⚙️ How It Works: What "Potential" Actually Means
The word "potential" refers to stored energy per unit charge at a given point in a circuit — just like gravitational potential energy is the stored energy per unit mass at a given height.
At the positive terminal of a battery, charges are at high potential (lots of energy). As they flow around the circuit through resistors and lamps, they lose energy — their potential drops. At the negative terminal, they are at low potential (little energy remaining).
The potential difference across a component is simply the difference in potential energy per coulomb between the two ends. A large p.d. means each coulomb transfers lots of energy — that component does more work (like a brighter bulb or a faster motor).
The battery's job is to restore the potential — like the ski lift returning skiers to the top of the hill so they can descend (do work) again.
Quick Check: A battery transfers 60 J of energy to 5 C of charge. What is the potential difference of the battery?
V = E / Q = 60 ÷ 5 = 12 V.
Practice questions for Potential Difference
Which of the following is the correct definition of potential difference?
Explain what is meant by a potential difference of 6 V across a component.