Voltage
Learning Objectives
- Students will be able to define voltage as potential difference
- Students will be able to measure voltage using a voltmeter
- Students will be able to understand electromotive force (EMF)
Core Concepts
- Potential difference
- Electromotive force
- Voltage in circuits
Formulas
$$V = \frac{W}{q}$$
Voltage as work done per unit charge
$$V = \varepsilon - Ir$$
Terminal voltage with internal resistance, where ε is EMF and r is internal resistance
Units
| Volt | V |
Interesting Fact
Electric eels generate voltages up to 600V using specialized cells called electrocytes
Key Scientist
Alessandro Volta
Defined electric potential and gave his name to the unit of voltage
Modern Research
Bioelectric research explores the role of voltage gradients across cell membranes in controlling development and healing, discovering intelligence at the cellular level.
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