What is the primary definition of voltage in electrical terms?

The primary definition of voltage, in electrical terms, refers to electromotive force or the difference in electric potential between two points in a circuit. It is the driving force that pushes electric charges through a conductor, allowing current to flow. Voltage represents the energy per unit charge needed to move electrons from one point to another within a circuit and is measured in volts.

Understanding voltage is fundamental in various electrical applications, including cathodic protection systems, where maintaining the right voltage levels is essential for ensuring effective corrosion prevention. It is important to recognize that while current flow and energy consumption are related to voltage, and opposition to electric current is described by resistance, they do not define what voltage itself is. Therefore, the choice highlighting electromotive force or potential difference accurately encapsulates the concept of voltage in electrical systems.