What actually is current? Why does it differ from potential difference?

Current is defined as 'the flow of electric charge'. It can be broken down into very simple system of electrons, who carry charge, moving around a circuit. Potential difference can be thought of the force that is required to make these electrons move around the circuit. It can almost be considered a pressure that squeezes the electrons, causing current to flow in the circuit. So, whilst Voltage/potential difference is most commonly thought of in circuitry, its actually the current that provides the physical electrical energy to components.

JO
Answered by James O. Physics tutor

5209 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Find the wavelength of a radio wave if the frequency is 11 x 10 ^6 Hz and the speed of radio waves in air is 3 x 10 ^8 m/s.


A cup of boiling water (100 degrees C) (0.2kg) transfers 20 000J of heat to its surrounding in 1 hour. What temperature is the water in the kettle after 1 hour?


An Electric Kettle is used to boil water. After the water is boiled, the temperature of the water decreases by 22C. The mass of water in the kettle is 0.50 kg. The specific heat capacity of water is 4200 J/kg C. Calculate the energy transferred.


State Newton's 3 Laws in words and/or mathematically


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences