What is the electric potential difference measured in?

Prepare for the SACE Stage 2 Physics Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready with precision!

The electric potential difference is measured in volts. This is a fundamental concept in electrical physics, where voltage represents the amount of energy per unit charge that is available to drive electric current through a circuit.

Specifically, one volt is defined as the potential difference that will move one coulomb of charge through a circuit, providing one joule of energy. This makes volts the standard unit for measuring electric potential, or voltage, which is crucial in understanding how electrical systems function.

The other units mentioned—amperes, ohms, and coulombs—represent different electrical concepts. Amperes measure electric current, which is the flow of electric charge. Ohms measure electrical resistance, which indicates how much a material opposes the flow of electric current. Coulombs measure the quantity of electric charge. Each of these units plays an essential role in the field of electricity, but only volts specifically quantify the potential difference in an electrical context.

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