potential difference


noun Electricity.

the difference between the potentials of two points in an electric field.

Origin of potential difference

First recorded in 1895–1900

British Dictionary definitions for potential difference

potential difference

noun

the difference in electric potential between two points in an electric field; the work that has to be done in transferring unit positive charge from one point to the other, measured in volts Symbol: U, Δ V, Δφ Abbreviation: pd Compare electromotive force

Scientific definitions for potential difference

potential difference
[ pə-tĕnshəl ]

The difference, measured in volts, in electric potential between two points, especially two points in an electric circuit.