potential difference
nounUK /pəˈtɛnʃəl ˈdɪfrəns/
US /pəˈtɛnʃəl ˈdɪfərəns/
The push that makes electricity move from one place to another.
The battery's potential difference makes the current flow through the wire.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The difference in electric potential between two points, measured in volts.
A voltmeter measures the potential difference across the resistor.
3. The work needed per unit charge to move a charge between two points in an electric field.
The potential difference between the plates of the capacitor is 12 volts.
4. A difference in energy level that can drive a flow of charge.
No potential difference means no current will flow in the circuit.