potential
puh-TEN-shul
/pəˈtɛnʃəl/
The amount of electric potential energy per unit charge at a specific point in an electric field (voltage).
Refers to electrical work required to move a unit charge to a location within an electric field.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'potentialis', from 'potentia' (power). In electrostatics, it measures the hidden electrical work stored by virtue of position near charges.
Word relationships
- voltage: Voltage specifically refers to the potential difference between two distinct points.
- kinetic energy: Kinetic energy is energy of active motion, whereas potential is stored energy based on position.
Commonly confused with
- power: Potential is energy per charge (volts), whereas power is energy transferred per unit time (watts).
Word family
- potent (adjective): Powerful or effective.
- potentially (adverb): With the possibility of happening.
Collocations
- electric potential
- potential difference
- potential energy
- action potential
Example sentences
- "Current flows naturally from points of high electric potential to points of lower potential." Circuit design analysis
- "Action potentials travel down nerve axons when cell membrane voltage thresholds are crossed." Neurobiology research paper
Memory hook
POTENTIAL holds POTENT stored energy ready to push current. Electrical energy stored per unit charge.
When not to use
Do not confuse technical electric potential (volts) with abstract personal potential or ability.
Fun facts
- A bird standing on a high-voltage power line isn't electrocuted because both feet are at the exact same electric potential.
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