potential difference

noun
UK: /pəˌten.ʃəl ˈdɪf.ər.əns/
US: /poʊˌten.ʃəl ˈdɪf.ər.əns/

  1. The difference in electrical potential energy between two points in a circuit.

    1. The potential difference makes the current flow in a circuit.
    2. The voltmeter measures the potential difference across the resistor in the circuit.

  2. The voltage between two points, representing the work needed to move a unit charge from one point to the other.

    1. The battery provides a potential difference that drives the circuit.
    2. A high potential difference can be dangerous due to the risk of electric shock.

Synonyms

voltage electromotive force

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "potential difference" in English means: The difference in electrical potential energy between two points in a circuit., The voltage between two points, representing the work needed to move a unit charge from one point to the other..

The phonetic transcription of "potential difference" is /pəˌten.ʃəl ˈdɪf.ər.əns/ in British English and /poʊˌten.ʃəl ˈdɪf.ər.əns/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "potential difference": voltage, electromotive force.

Example usage of "potential difference": "The potential difference makes the current flow in a circuit.". More examples on the page.