Question

What do you understand by potential difference ?

Hint:

Think of potential difference as "electrical pressure". The formula \( V = W/Q \), the unit "volt", and the measurement device "voltmeter" (connected in parallel) are key points to remember for exams.

Answer 1

Potential difference is a fundamental concept in electricity that describes the driving force for electric current.
\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{Definition: The electric potential difference between two points in an electric circuit is defined as the amount of work done to move a unit positive charge from one point to the other. } \\ \bullet & \text{Formula: It is represented by the symbol \(V\) and is calculated as: } \\ \bullet & \text{Unit: The SI unit of potential difference is the volt (V). One volt is defined as the potential difference between two points when one joule of work is done to move a charge of one coulomb between them. } \\ \bullet & \text{Analogy: It is analogous to pressure difference in a water pipe. Just as a pressure difference is needed for water to flow, a potential difference is needed for electric charge (current) to flow. } \\ \bullet & \text{Measurement: It is measured using an instrument called a voltmeter, which is always connected in parallel across the two points where the potential difference is to be measured. } \\ \end{array}\]