In an electrical circuit, what does 'voltage' refer to?

In an electrical circuit, 'voltage' refers to the electrical force that creates electron movement. It is often described as the potential difference between two points in a circuit, which pushes electrons to flow from one point to another, essentially providing the energy needed for the electrons to move. This driving force is crucial, as it determines how much current can flow through the circuit, given a particular resistance.

Understanding voltage is fundamental for grasping how electrical circuits operate. It is measured in volts, and the higher the voltage, the greater the electrical force available to push the electrons along the circuit. This principle is essential in applications ranging from simple circuits to complex systems in electronics and electrical engineering.