The difference between voltage and potential difference
Abstract
In this paper some basic terms such as voltage and potential difference are presented. In many cases they are regarded as identical which leads to confusion with understanding of the fundamental concept of electromagnetic field. Related to this topic, some authors in their books and papers on electromagnetic theory have discussed what the voltmeter actually measures, which is resolved here in a simple way. In this paper it is shown that there is a difference between the terms voltage and potential difference depending on what is the observation point - static fields or time-varying fields. Also in the transmission line model, the voltage between two points depends on the path of integration and, therefore, is ambiguous. What is commonly referred to as voltage, is transversal voltage that is a special case of voltage equal to the potential difference that is unique. Similarly, in electrical circuit analysis, branch voltages are unique and equal to difference of nodal voltages (nodal potentials).
Slavko Vujević
Professor Emeritus
An expert in electrical engineering, particularly known for his contributions to numerical modeling of electromagnetic phenomena, lightning protection, and grounding. Throughout his career, he was a key member of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Naval Architecture in Split, where he taught, mentored students, and actively participated in scientific research and international professional organizations.
Tonći Modrić
Associate Professor | Department of Electrical Intallations and Systems
Researcher and Full Professor at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Naval Architecture in Split. His research focus is numerical modeling and calculation of the electric and magnetic fields in power systems and transmission lines, with an emphasis on the development of advanced models for interpreting geoelectrical ground survey data. Additionally, he is involved in the analysis of electromagnetic transients in systems with a high share of renewable energy sources, using finite element techniques.
Dino Lovrić
Associate Professor | Department of Theoretical Electrical Engineering and Modelling
Associate professor at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture in Split, with reserch focused on the development of numerical models of grounding systems in various types of soil, particularly in scenarios involving the dissipation of alternating current and transient currents caused by lightning strikes or switching overvoltages, also involved in developing models of dynamic and transient processes in power systems using modern numerical methods.