In electrical systems, how is "voltage" best defined?

Voltage is best defined as the electrical potential difference between two points in a circuit. This potential difference represents the force that pushes electric charges to move through a conductor, enabling current flow. When you have a voltage between two points, it signifies the potential energy available to perform work, which is essential for the functioning of electrical devices. This concept is foundational in understanding how electrical circuits operate, as it dictates the flow of current in conjunction with resistance according to Ohm’s Law.

In electrical systems, it is crucial to conceptualize voltage correctly, as it differentiates the driving force behind the movement of electrons from other parameters such as current, which is the actual flow of electrons, and resistance, which impedes the flow. Understanding voltage in this way allows for clearer insights into circuit behavior, design, and troubleshooting.