Request for historical background on the concept of voltage

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the historical background of the concept of voltage, highlighting its evolution and the contributions of key figures such as Alessandro Volta and Luigi Galvani. Forum members, including Jim Hardy and SophieCentaur, provided insights that clarified the mathematical theory and experimental foundations of voltage. The inquiry emphasizes the importance of understanding voltage not just as a concept but as a historical development influenced by significant scientific advancements.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of electrical concepts such as current and resistance.
  • Familiarity with key historical figures in electricity, particularly Alessandro Volta and Luigi Galvani.
  • Knowledge of the mathematical principles related to voltage.
  • Awareness of the evolution of electrical theory over time.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the experiments conducted by Alessandro Volta that led to the development of the voltaic pile.
  • Study the contributions of Luigi Galvani to the field of bioelectricity and its relation to voltage.
  • Explore the historical timeline of electrical theory from the 18th century to present.
  • Investigate the mathematical formulations of voltage and their implications in modern electrical engineering.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for electrical engineering students, historians of science, and anyone interested in the foundational concepts of electricity and their historical context.

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Hi all. I'll get to the point. I've been interested in electricity since I was in college. Concepts such as current and resistance seemed easy to grasp for me but voltage remains a little bit obscure. It's thanks to this forum (specially forum members Jim Hardy r.i.p and SophieCentaur, sorry if I'm missing anyone) and some books that I came across with that I got a much better idea of what voltage is. Nevertheless, I would like to read the historical background of this concept (i.e how the mathematical theory was developed, by whom, what experiments were done to develop this concept etc.) I know the concept of voltage has changed over the history and its particular background may be unclear, still, if there's info that you could provide I would appreciate that.
Have an awesome day.
 
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