What is voltage defined as?

Voltage is defined as the potential difference between two points in an electrical circuit. It represents the amount of electric potential energy per unit charge available to move electrons through a circuit. When there is a voltage difference between two points, it creates an electric field that causes charges to move, resulting in an electric current. This concept is fundamental in understanding how electrical circuits operate, as it dictates the flow of current from one point to another.

In electrical terms, voltage is measured in volts (V), and it reflects how much energy each coulomb of charge will gain or lose as it moves through the circuit components. This potential difference is crucial because it determines how much current will flow based on the resistance of the circuit, as described by Ohm's Law (V = I * R), where I is the current and R is the resistance.

The other definitions do not accurately describe voltage. The flow of electric current pertains to the movement of electrons, resistance relates to the opposition to that flow, and power consumption pertains to the rate at which energy is used in the circuit. Each of these concepts is important, but only the potential difference accurately defines what voltage is.