What does a volt measure?

A volt measures electric potential difference, which is the force that pushes electric charges through a circuit. This potential difference occurs between two points in an electrical circuit, indicating how much work is needed to move a unit charge from one point to another. It is a fundamental concept in electricity that represents the potential energy per unit charge, allowing the movement and interaction of electric charges.

Understanding this, it is crucial to differentiate it from the other concepts related to electricity. Electric current, measured in amperes, refers to the flow of electric charge, while electric power, expressed in watts, signifies the rate at which electrical energy is used or converted. Resistance, measured in ohms, is a measure of how much a component opposes the flow of current. Each of these electrical properties serves a distinct purpose, but the volt specifically quantifies the potential difference that drives the flow of electrical current in a circuit.