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

4470 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A block of mass m is released from rest on a surface inclined at 30⁰ to the horizontal with a coefficient of friction of 0.3. How long does it take for the block to slide 1 m?


How does a thermal nuclear reactor work?


A ball is dropped from rest at a height of 2 metres. Assuming acceleration due to gravity (g) is 10m/s^2 calculate the velocity of the ball just before it hits the floor.


If a ball is thrown on the Moon, the projectile would have a greater range than if it were to have been thrown on Earth. Why is this the case?


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