EMF vs Voltage: Key Differences Explained with Comparison Chart
One of the key differences between electromotive force (EMF) and voltage is that EMF refers to the energy supplied to charges, while voltage represents the energy required to move a unit charge from one point to another. Other distinctions between the two are detailed in the comparison chart below.
Comparison Chart
Definition of Voltage
Voltage is defined as the energy required to move a unit charge from one point to another. It is measured in volts (V) and denoted by the symbol V. Voltage is induced by electric and magnetic fields.
Voltage is generated between the two terminals of a source (i.e., the cathode and anode). The potential at the positive terminal of the source is higher than that at the negative terminal. When voltage is developed across a passive component in a circuit, it is referred to as a voltage drop. According to Kirchhoff’s law, the sum of all voltage drops in a circuit equals the electromotive force (EMF) of the source.
Definition of EMF
Electromotive force (EMF) is the energy supplied by a source to each coulomb of charge. In other words, it is the energy provided by an active source (such as a battery) per unit coulomb of charge. EMF is measured in volts (V) and denoted by the symbol ε.
The electromotive force of the above circuit is represented by the formula
Where, r – internal resistance of the circuit.
R – External resistane of the circuit.
E – electromotive force.
I – current
Key Differences Between EMF and Voltage
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