Electromotive Force (EMF)
Electromotive Force, or EMF, is a critical concept in the study of electricity, particularly in understanding how batteries and cells operate. EMF refers to the total energy supplied by a cell or battery for every coulomb of charge that passes through it. Essentially, it indicates the potential difference that may be observed across the terminals of a battery when no current is being drawn.
In practical terms, EMF can be viewed as the 'drive' behind electric current within a circuit. It is typically measured in volts (V), coherent with the defined unit of potential difference. When a battery is fully charged and not connected in a circuit (i.e., no current flowing), the voltage measured between its terminals reflects its EMF.
Understanding EMF is crucial in various applications, from power distribution systems to electronic devices, as it affects how devices function based on the energy supplied by their sources. This section sets the stage for further discussions on electric circuits and the principles governing electric flow.