Chapter 33, Problem 13A

Clearly distinguish between electrical potential energy and electric potential.

To determine

To explain: The difference between electrical potential energy and electric potential.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The energy possessed by a charge due to its position in an electric field is called electrical potential energy. Electric potential can be defined as the electrical potential energy per charge.

The main difference between the two quantities: electric potential and electrical potential energy is:

  $\text{electrical potential}=\frac{\text{electrical potential energy}}{\text{charge}}$

Electric potential is equal to electrical potential energy per charge.

Both terms can be represented as follows in terms of units:

  $\text{1 volt}=1\frac{\text{joule}}{\text{coulomb}}$

Conclusion:

Hence, electrical potential is the electrical potential energy per charge.