What's the difference between Potential Difference and Electromotive Force

Although both are measured in volts, there is a subtle difference in their respective definition. Electromotive Force is the transfer of chemical energy in a battery (multiple single cells) into electrical energy per unit charge. Potential Difference is the transfer of electrical energy to other forms per unit charge, like kinetic in a motor or to hear in a heating element.
Both can be worked out numerically by computing V=W/Q

JJ
Answered by Joseph J. Physics tutor

4068 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the maximum speed of an electron emitted from a metal surface with a threshold frequency of 5.706*10^(14) by light with a wavelength of 350nm?


A linear accelerator (LINAC) is used to accelerate protons at CERN before they are injected into the Large Hadron Collider. Explain with the aid of a diagram how the proton is accelerated by the LINAC.


Explain how a stationary wave is produced when a string fixed at both ends is plucked


A car is travelling at 20 m/s. The accelerator is applied, causing an acceleration of 2m/s^s. How fast is the car travelling after 10 seconds of acceleration?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning