Voltage — Science definition
The electrical push (potential difference) that drives current, measured in volts (V).
Where it is taught
- Electricity & Simple Circuits — Energy & Heat Transfer, Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy, Grade 8
In use
Voltage, measured in volts (V), is the electrical 'push' — the pressure from the battery that drives the current forward.
Electricity & Simple Circuits
Questions using voltage
Problem 1
A current of 4 amps flows through a 6-ohm resistor. Find the voltage.
Answer and explanation
24 V
V = IR = 4 × 6 = 24 V.
Problem 2
What voltage in volts drives 0.5 A through a 20 Ω resistor?
Answer and explanation
10 V
V = IR = 0.5 × 20 = 10 V.