This definitions covers Key Definitions within Potential Difference for GCSE Physics. Revise Potential Difference in Electricity for GCSE Physics with 14 exam-style questions and 30 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 7 of 14 in this topic. Make sure you can use the exact wording confidently, because definition marks are often lost through vague language.
Topic position
Section 7 of 14
Practice
14 questions
Recall
30 flashcards
📖 Key Definitions
Potential difference (p.d.): The energy transferred per unit charge as charge flows between two points. Measured in volts (V). Formula: V = E/Q.
Volt (V): The SI unit of potential difference. 1 V = 1 J/C (one joule of energy transferred per coulomb of charge).
Electromotive force (EMF): The energy given to each coulomb of charge by a power supply (battery or generator). Measured in volts.
Voltmeter: An instrument used to measure potential difference. Must always be connected in parallel across a component.
Energy transferred (E): The total energy transferred by charge moving through a component. E = VQ. Measured in joules (J).