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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between EMF and Potential Difference?

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The main difference between electromotive force (EMF) and potential difference lies in their definitions, units, and how they are affected by circuit resistance. Here's a side-by-side comparison of the two concepts:

Property EMF (Electromotive Force) Potential Difference (V)
Definition The amount of energy given to each coulomb of charge. It is the driving force in a circuit. The amount of energy utilized by one coulomb of charge. It is the result of the EMF within a circuit.
Unit Volts (V) Volts (V)
Internal Resistance Independent. Dependent.
Measurement Measured using an EMF meter. Measured using a voltmeter.

In summary, EMF is the driving force in a circuit, responsible for transferring energy across the circuit, while potential difference is the result of the EMF within a circuit and represents the amount of energy utilized by one coulomb of charge.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between EMF and Potential Difference?
  • Comparative Table: EMF vs Potential Difference

    • Comparative Table: EMF vs Potential Difference

    Here is a table highlighting the differences between electromotive force (EMF) and potential difference:

    Feature Electromotive Force (EMF) Potential Difference
    Definition The amount of energy supplied to one coulomb of charge. The difference in potential energy per unit charge between two points in a circuit.
    Variation Remains constant. Does not remain constant, depends on the circuit's internal resistance.
    Relation Cause. Effect.
    Unit Volt (V). Volt (V).
    Measurement Measured using an EMF meter. Measured using a voltmeter.
    Independence Independent of resistance. Dependent on resistance between two points.
    Field Generated in electric, magnetic, and gravitational fields. Generated only in an electric field.

    Some key points to remember:

    • EMF is the measure of energy that it gives to each coulomb of charge.
    • The electromotive force is induced in electric, magnetic, and gravitational fields, whereas the potential difference is generated only in an electric field.
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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.