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Voltage

Definition

Voltage, also known as electric potential difference, is the force that pushes electric current through circuits. It's measured in volts (V).

Analogy

Imagine voltage as the pressure from a water pump in a garden hose. The higher the pressure (voltage), the more water (current) is pushed through the hose (circuit).

Related terms

Current: This is the rate at which charge flows through a point on a circuit; akin to how fast water flows out of your garden hose.

Resistance: This measures how much an object resists or reduces flow of current; think about this as any blockages or kinks in your garden hose slowing down the flow of water.

Ohm’s Law: A fundamental law stating that current passing through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to voltage across two points and inversely proportional to resistance; imagine adjusting both the water pump's pressure and removing any blockages in your hose to get just right amount of water flow.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.