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potential difference
noun
: the difference in potential between two points that represents the work involved or the energy released in the transfer of a unit quantity of electricity from one point to the other
Word History
First Known Use
1892, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of potential difference was
in 1892
Dictionary Entries Near potential difference
Cite this Entry
“Potential difference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/potential%20difference. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.
Kids Definition
potential difference
noun
: the difference in potential between two points that represents the work involved or the energy released in the transfer of a unit quantity of electricity from one point to the other
Medical Definition
potential difference
noun
potential dif·fer·ence
-ˈdif-(ə-)rən(t)s
: the difference in electrical potential between two points that represents the work involved or the energy released in the transfer of a unit quantity of electricity from one point to the other compare action potential, generator potential, membrane potential, resting potential
More from Merriam-Webster on potential difference
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about potential difference
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