Voltage (V)

Voltage, often denoted as $𝑉$, is a measure of electric potential difference between two points in an electrical circuit. It represents the force or pressure that drives electric current through a conductor. Here are some key points about voltage:

1. Definition: Voltage is the energy per unit charge available to move electric charges between two points. It is measured in volts (V). One volt is defined as the potential difference across a conductor when one joule of energy is transferred per coulomb of charge.

2. Electric Potential: Voltage is also referred to as electric potential difference or electromotive force (EMF). It represents the difference in electric potential between two points in an electrical circuit. Electric potential is the amount of electric potential energy per unit charge at a specific point in space.

3. Voltage Sources: Voltage is typically provided by voltage sources such as batteries, generators, or power supplies. These sources establish a potential difference between their terminals, creating a voltage across the circuit.

4. Circuit Components: In an electrical circuit, voltage is the driving force that causes electric current to flow. It determines the rate at which charge carriers (usually electrons) move through the circuit. Voltage is applied across circuit components, such as resistors, capacitors, and inductors, causing them to perform various functions.

5. Polarity: Voltage has polarity, indicating the direction of the potential difference between two points. The polarity determines the direction of current flow in a circuit. Conventionally, the positive terminal of a voltage source is designated as higher potential, while the negative terminal is lower potential.

6. Voltage Drop: In a circuit, voltage may drop across components due to resistance, impedance, or other factors. Voltage drop is the decrease in voltage from one point to another in a circuit. It is essential to consider voltage drop to ensure proper functioning of electrical devices and components.

7. Units: Voltage is measured in volts (V), named after the Italian physicist Alessandro Volta. One volt is equivalent to one joule per coulomb ($1\text{V}=1\text{J/C}$).

Understanding voltage is crucial in electrical engineering, electronics, and physics, as it is a fundamental parameter in analyzing and designing electrical circuits and systems. Voltage plays a central role in controlling the flow of electric current and powering various electrical devices and equipment.