Defining Electromotive Force (\epsilon)

In summary, electromotive force (EMF) is the potential difference between two points in an electric circuit that pushes electrons to flow from one point to another. It is often used interchangeably with voltage, but they are not exactly the same. The unit of measurement for EMF is volts (V) in the International System of Units (SI). Common sources of EMF include batteries, generators, solar cells, and power plants. EMF can be negative when the energy source is being drained or functioning in reverse.
  • #1
Petar Mali
290
0
How to define electromotive force?

[tex]\epsilon=\oint_L\vec{E}\cdot d\vec{l}[/tex]

Can I say electromotive force is work per unit charge which we need to put charge from one place of contoure to the same place?
 
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  • #2
That is the emf due to a magnetic flux. There is also the emf due to a chemical reaction, e.g. in a battery. There is also the emf due to a photovoltaic, or in a thermocouple, etc. There are lots of different kinds of emf, that definition only applies to one kind.
 

FAQ: Defining Electromotive Force (\epsilon)

1. What is electromotive force (EMF)?

Electromotive force, also known as EMF, is the potential difference between two points in an electric circuit. It is the force that pushes electrons to flow from one point to another.

2. How is EMF different from voltage?

EMF is often used interchangeably with voltage, but they are not exactly the same. Voltage is the amount of potential energy per unit of charge, while EMF is the energy provided by a source per unit of charge.

3. What is the unit of measurement for EMF?

The unit of measurement for EMF is volts (V) in the International System of Units (SI).

4. What are some common sources of EMF?

Some common sources of EMF include batteries, generators, solar cells, and power plants. These sources convert other forms of energy into electrical energy, which creates the potential difference necessary for EMF.

5. Can EMF be negative?

Yes, EMF can be negative. A negative EMF indicates that the direction of the electric current is opposite to the direction of the force that is causing it. This can happen when the energy source is being drained or is functioning in reverse.

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