Similar term(s): intensity of current, potential difference.
Definition:
The electrical current is a physical phenomenon caused by the displacement of
electrons or ions that induce electric fields. By convention, current is
considered to be a flux of positive charges.
The intensity of the current is the quantity of charge which passes in a
conductor per unit of time. The intensity of the current is measured in Amperes
(A).
Source: Belgian BioElectroMagnetic Group Dictionary
More:
One can compare this to the current of a river. The flow (water quantity per
unit of time) would be the intensity expressed as Amperes (A). The pressure
would be the potential difference expressed as Volts (V).
As there can exist a pressure (difference in level for example) without an
inevitable water circulation, one can detect the electric potential without an
inevitable circulation of electrons : thus the terminal voltage of a plug is
present if the light is switched on or switched off. However, one does
not detect intensity if the appliance is switched off.
