Potential Difference and Electromotive Force (Leaving Cert Physics): Flashcards

Energy lost by one coulomb between two points in a circuit

Joule per coulomb ($\text{J C}^{-1}$) or volt (V)

Electrical potential energy converts to heat energy

$V = \frac{W}{q}$

Rate at which work is done or energy converts

Watt (W); 1 watt = 1 joule per second

$P = VI$

Total voltage = sum of individual voltages; $V = V_1 + V_2 + V_3$

All components experience the same voltage; $V = V_1 = V_2 = V_3$

In parallel with the component being measured

Electrical energy given to each coulomb by a source

Volt (V)

Sum of individual emfs; $\text{emf} = \text{emf}_1 + \text{emf}_2 + \text{emf}_3$

Voltage

One joule per coulomb