What are volts a measure of?

Volts are a measure of electric potential, which refers to the potential energy per unit charge available to move electric charges in a circuit. This concept is fundamental in electrical engineering and physics, as it helps to describe how much energy is available to push electrons through a conductor.

When a voltage (measured in volts) is applied across a component of a circuit, it creates an electric field that drives the flow of electric current (measured in amperes) through that component. Therefore, understanding volts as the measure of electric potential allows you to see how they relate to the overall behavior of electric circuits. This understanding is critical when studying electrical systems, enabling you to calculate aspects like circuit behavior, power consumption, and how different components interact within a circuit.