What is the difference between EMF and Voltage?

EMF stands for the Electromotive Force and it can be defined in a few ways:

1. It's the potential across the terminal ends of a cell.

2. Or in other words, the amount of energy that is given to a charge in in the circuit as it leaves the cell. 

When we talk about EMF we usually talk about a circuit powered by a cell with some internal resistance. All cells have an internal resistance that prevent them from outputing a constant Voltage. Some of this energy is lost as heat to the surroundings when it passes through the internal resistance of the cell.

When we talk about voltage we usually talk about the potential difference across two points in a circuit.

EMF can be found using the equation E = I(R+r).

Voltage can be found using the equation V = IR.

If we compare both equations we see that EMF and V are very closely related, where EMF adds the internal resistance to the equation to make up for the energy loss in the cell due to it's internal resistance.

FG
Answered by Francisco G. Physics tutor

2230 Views

See similar Physics IB tutors

Related Physics IB answers

All answers ▸

Use the idea of a thermos flask to explain conduction, convection and radiation. Comment also how a thermos flask can reduce heat loss.


what is the derivative of x?


If a body is projected from the ground at the angle of 30 degrees to the horizontal with the initial velocity of 20 m/s, what maximum height and range is it going to reach?


When a hailstone of 0 C falls towards the earth, the kinetic energy of the hailstone is transferred to thermal energy in the ice. What is the minimum speed so that it just melts when it hits the surface. The latent heat of fusion of ice is 340 kJ/kg.


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