Emf
from class: College Physics I – Introduction Definition Electromotive force (emf) is the energy provided per unit charge by an energy source, such as a battery or generator. It is measured in volts and represents the potential difference that drives current around a circuit.
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Predict what's on your test 5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test Emf is not a force but a potential difference measured in volts. In a closed loop, the sum of emf sources equals the sum of voltage drops according to Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law. Emf sources can be both ideal and real; real sources have internal resistance. The symbol for emf in equations is usually $\mathcal{E}$ or $E$. A higher emf means more energy per charge is available to do work in the circuit. Review Questions What does electromotive force (emf) measure and in what units? How does Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law relate to emf in a closed loop? What is the significance of internal resistance in real emf sources?
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