What does the volt measure in an electrical circuit?

The volt is a unit of measurement that quantifies the potential difference, or voltage, in an electrical circuit. More specifically, it measures the electrical force that drives the movement of electrons through a conductor. This concept is integral to understanding how electrical energy is transmitted and used in circuits.

When we refer to voltage as the electrical "force," we mean that it indicates how much energy is available to push electric charge through a conductor, like a wire. This force is what causes current to flow, which is why it can often be associated with the movement of electrons. The higher the voltage, the greater the potential for current to flow, provided that there is a complete circuit for the electrons to travel through.

In contrast, power consumed relates to how much energy is used over a specific time period, current refers to the flow of electric charge, and resistance is the opposition that a conductor offers to the flow of current. While all these concepts are connected through the fundamental principles of electricity described by Ohm's Law and other electrical laws, the volt specifically measures the electrical force that drives the charge flow, making it a key concept in understanding electrical circuits.