- Potential difference equation: V = E / Q
- Voltage unit: volts (V)
- 1 volt = 1 joule per coulomb
- Voltmeter connected in parallel
- Series circuit: voltages add up to supply voltage
- Parallel circuit: voltage is the same across each branch
- More resistance in a series circuit → bigger voltage share
Quick Check: In a series circuit, a battery has p.d. = 9 V. One component has 4 V across it. What is the voltage across the second component?
In a series circuit, voltages add up to the supply: V₂ = 9 − 4 = 5 V.
This key facts covers Key Facts Summary 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 8 of 14 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
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.