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).
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 topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. 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.
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.