- #1
Potential difference between two points
- Thread starter nikhilthunder
- Start date
In summary: Shannon, on the other hand, would have argued that the current flows because the potential difference at each point is a symbol in the code, and the code is a mapping between the potential difference at each point and the resistance between each point.In summary, current flow is dependent on a potential difference between two points, as this creates a complete path for the flow. However, even without a potential difference, current can still flow through a wire due to its small resistance. The overall current flow is determined by the magnitude of the resistance in the circuit, and the division of voltage between various points.
- #2
HallsofIvy
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
- 42,988
- 981
Your first statement is wrong- you do NOT have to have a potential difference between two points in order to have electricity flow between them. Think of electricity as water flowing. "Potential difference" corresponds to different heights. Of course, water flows from higher to lower but you certainly can have water flowing along a flat area: the flow downhill before the flat section "pushes" the water ahead of it.
- #3
tiny-tim
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
- 25,839
- 258
nikhilthunder said:
Hi nikhilthunder!
(I flow, you flow, we flow, they flow, he flows, she flows, current flows
)hmm … good question …
any wire has a very very small resistance (which we usually ignore) …
so by Kirchhoff's rules there's a very small potential drop between A and B …
the current flows because of that potential difference.
Last edited:
- #4
stewartcs
Science Advisor
- 2,178
- 3
A potential difference is required for current to flow. In this case, the potential difference exists between the positive and negative terminals of the battery. This potential difference creates a current flow once a complete path is established between the terminals. Points A and B have current flowing through them but very little voltage drop due to the wire resistance (and no voltage drop if an ideal wire is assumed). With or without a local potential difference between points A and B, current still flows through them since the source current entering point A must equal the current exiting point A (conservation of energy or KCL). The same goes for point B.
CS
- #5
cabraham
- 1,181
- 90
tiny-tim said:Hi nikhilthunder!
(I flow, you flow, we flow, they flow, he flows, she flows, current flows
hmm … good question …
any wire has a very very small resistance (which we usually ignore) …
so by Kirchhoff's rules there's a very small potential drop between A and B …
the current flows because of that potential difference.
But the current would flow without said potential difference if the resistance were zero. It flows with or without said PD, but the resistance, plus the sum of all other resistances determines the magnitude of current, as long as the power source maintains a constant voltage.
The overall current flows because of the energy conversion taking place inside the battery. The distribution of various resistances around the loop determine the magnitude of the current, and the division of voltage.
Claude
FAQ: Potential difference between two points
What is potential difference between two points?
The potential difference between two points is the difference in electric potential energy per unit charge between those two points. It is measured in volts (V).
How is potential difference calculated?
Potential difference is calculated by dividing the work done in moving a charge from one point to another by the amount of charge moved. This can be represented by the equation V = W/Q, where V is the potential difference, W is the work done, and Q is the amount of charge.
What factors affect potential difference?
The main factor that affects potential difference is the distance between the two points. The further apart the points are, the greater the potential difference will be. Other factors that can affect potential difference include the amount of charge present and the presence of any external fields or objects.
What is the relationship between potential difference and electric current?
Potential difference and electric current are directly related. An increase in potential difference will result in an increase in current, while a decrease in potential difference will result in a decrease in current. This relationship is represented by Ohm's law, which states that current is equal to the potential difference divided by the resistance in a circuit (I = V/R).
How is potential difference used in practical applications?
Potential difference is used in many practical applications, such as in batteries, generators, and electrical circuits. It is also used in everyday devices like cell phones, laptops, and household appliances. Understanding potential difference is crucial in designing and maintaining electrical systems and ensuring the safe and efficient use of electricity.