This deep dive covers Understanding Potential Difference 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 2 of 14 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
📚 Understanding Potential Difference
Potential Difference Equation
V = E / Q
Voltage (V) = Energy transferred (J) ÷ Charge (C)
Potential difference (p.d.) is the energy transferred per unit charge as charges pass through a component.
- 1 Volt = 1 Joule per Coulomb (1 V = 1 J/C)
- A 6 V battery gives 6 J to every coulomb
- A lamp with 6 V across it takes 6 J from every coulomb
Two contexts for voltage:
- EMF (electromotive force) — voltage across a power supply (energy given to charges)
- p.d. (potential difference) — voltage across a component (energy taken from charges)
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.
Quick recall flashcards
What is 1 Volt?
1 Joule per Coulomb (1 V = 1 J/C)
P.d. equation?
V = E/Q where V = voltage (V), E = energy (J), Q = charge (C). Also V = IR.