Physics A-Level
Terminal potential difference and lost volts
What Terminal potential difference and lost volts means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Terminal potential difference and lost volts
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Terminal potential difference and lost volts in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
The terminal potential difference V is the p.d. across the external resistance only, and the lost volts Ir increase with current.
Topics that use Terminal potential difference and lost volts
- Internal resistance (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Electromotive force and internal resistance
- Energy transfer per unit charge in a source
- Lost volts
- Terminal potential difference
- Circuit equations and algebraic rearrangement
- Electromotive force
- Internal resistance
Using Terminal potential difference and lost volts in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Physics A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge