What term describes the effective difference of potential between conductors in a circuit?

The term that describes the effective difference of potential between conductors in a circuit is voltage. Voltage, also known as electric potential difference, is a measure of the potential energy per unit charge between two points in an electrical circuit. It indicates how much work can be done to move charges from one point to another and is a fundamental concept in understanding how electrical systems operate.

In practical applications, voltage is critical for determining the operation of electrical devices and the flow of current within circuits. For instance, a higher voltage means a greater potential to drive current through resistance in a circuit. Voltage is measured in volts (V) and is essential in ensuring that circuits function properly and safely.

Other terms, like voltage rating, voltage drop, and voltage limit, serve specific purposes within the context of electrical systems but do not define the general concept of the difference of potential in the way that voltage does. Voltage rating typically refers to the maximum voltage that a device can handle safely, voltage drop pertains to the reduction in voltage in a circuit along the conductor due to resistance, and voltage limit often indicates thresholds to avoid damage or failure in devices.