ELECTRIC POTENTIAL Definition & Meaning

electric potential

noun

Also called potential. Electricity. (at any point in an electric field) the work done per unit charge in moving an infinitesimal point charge from a common reference point to the given point. : V
Physiology. action potential.

electric potential

noun

1. the work required to transfer a unit positive electric charge from an infinite distance to a given point against an electric field
2. the potential difference between the point and some other reference point ��φ Sometimes shortened topotential

electric potential

A measure of the work required by an electric field to move electric charges. Its unit is the volt.
Also called voltage
See more at Ohm's law

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�y��vlog History and Origins

Origin of electric potential¹

First recorded in 1870–75

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Compare Meanings

How does electric potential compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

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Example Sentences

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When plants draw water from their roots to nourish their stems and leaves, they produce an electric potential that could be harnessed as a renewable energy source.

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The list of areas that could be enhanced by the findings is indeed considerable and extends to using a temperature gradient to generate electric potential.

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The zinc oxide material was chosen for its piezoelectric properties, which means that when it waves, bends, or deforms under motion, it generates electric potential.

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We call its flow the electric current, and its pressure is called the electric potential, or voltage.

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On one end of the waveguide, prepare a particle—ideally an electron or some particle of matter—in its lowest energy, or ground, state and trap it in a bowl-shaped electric potential well.

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