What does voltage measure in an electrical context?

Voltage measures the electrical pressure from a power source. In electrical circuits, voltage is the potential difference that drives electrical charges to move, creating a flow of current. It determines how much energy each charge will have when moving through a circuit. Just as pressure in a water system pushes water through pipes, voltage pushes electrons through a conductor.

The concept is fundamental for understanding how electrical systems operate. A higher voltage indicates a greater ability to push current through the circuit, while a lower voltage implies less pressure. This concept helps in designing and troubleshooting electrical systems, as well as in powering devices efficiently.