How to Calculate Work Done Using Potential Difference?

In summary, the potential difference, also known as electric potential, is the difference in electric potential energy between two points that causes current to flow in a closed circuit. It can be calculated as the work done in moving a charge between two points, using the formula V=W/Q.
  • #1
JoulesVolts
4
0
Could someone tell me how to solve this question please?

The potential difference between the two terminals on a battery is 9 volts. How much work (energy) is required to transfer 10 coulombs of charge across the terminals.
 
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  • #2
What is the definition of potential difference or essentially electric potential?
 
  • #3
Potential Difference : Difference in electric potential energy between two points that will cause current to flow in a closed circuit
 
  • #4
JoulesVolts said:
Potential Difference : Difference in electric potential energy between two points that will cause current to flow in a closed circuit

So it can be considered as the work done in moving a charge between two points then. or V=W/Q.
 
  • #5


To solve this question, you can use the formula W = QV, where W is the work done, Q is the charge, and V is the potential difference. In this case, W = (10 coulombs)(9 volts) = 90 joules. Therefore, 90 joules of work is required to transfer 10 coulombs of charge across the terminals.
 

1. What is potential difference?

Potential difference is the difference in electric potential between two points in an electric circuit. It is also known as voltage and is measured in volts (V).

2. How is potential difference calculated?

Potential difference is calculated by dividing the change in electric potential energy between two points by the amount of charge that moves between them. Mathematically, it is represented as V = W/Q, where V is potential difference, W is work done, and Q is charge.

3. What is the unit of potential difference?

The unit of potential difference is volts (V), which is equivalent to joules per coulomb (J/C).

4. What is the relationship between potential difference and current?

There is a direct relationship between potential difference and current. As potential difference increases, current also increases. This relationship is described by Ohm's law, which states that current is directly proportional to potential difference and inversely proportional to resistance.

5. How does potential difference affect the flow of electrons?

Potential difference is what drives the flow of electrons in an electric circuit. The greater the potential difference, the more energy the electrons have, and the faster they can flow. This is why higher voltage sources can power devices more efficiently than lower voltage sources.

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