EMF (Electromotive Force) vs Potential Difference — Difference (with Table)
EMF (Electromotive Force) vs Potential Difference compared side by side — a 7-row comparison table and 4 key points. Class 12 Physics, free and no sign-up.
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TL;DR: EMF (Electromotive Force) vs Potential Difference compared side by side — a 7-row comparison table and 4 key points. Class 12 Physics, free and no sig…
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The main difference between EMF (Electromotive Force) and Potential Difference: EMF and potential difference are both measures of electrical energy but differ in their source and application. EMF is the total energy per unit charge pro
EMF (Electromotive Force) vs Potential Difference — Comparison Table
| Basis | EMF (Electromotive Force) | Potential Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Total energy given by source per unit charge | Energy change between two specific points |
| Source | Provided by energy source like battery | Exists between any two points in circuit |
| Internal Resistance | Includes effect of internal resistance | Measured across external resistance |
| Symbol | E (or sometimes denoted as ε) | V (voltage) |
| Magnitude | Always greater than terminal voltage | Equals terminal voltage when no internal resistance |
| Measurement | Cannot be directly measured with voltmeter | Can be measured with voltmeter |
| Formula Relation | E = V + I × r | V = E - I × r |
Key Points
- EMF is property of energy source; potential difference is property of circuit
- EMF always remains same; potential difference changes with current and load
- Terminal voltage equals EMF only when internal resistance is zero or no current flows
- Larger internal resistance means greater difference between EMF and terminal voltage