Electric Potential
The electric potential energy per unit charge at a point in an electric field relative to a chosen reference point.
Governing formula
V = U / q = (1 / (4π ε₀)) q / r
SI unit
V (Volts = J/C)
In depth
Electric potential is a scalar field. Positive test charges naturally accelerate spontaneously from regions of high potential toward regions of low potential, converting electric potential energy into kinetic energy.
Examples in the real world
The positive terminal of a car battery maintained at an electric potential 12 Volts higher than its grounded negative terminal chassis connection.