Safety boundary
Use simulations, supplied data, and ordinary classroom-static examples only. Do not use mains electricity or improvised high-voltage devices.
Explicit physics instruction
Electric potential is energy per unit charge. A potential difference ΔV corresponds to energy change ΔU=qΔV.
Potential is scalar, while electric field is vector. This distinction makes potential useful for energy accounting.
Charges can gain or lose electric potential energy depending on both charge sign and potential change.
Vocabulary: electric potential; voltage; electric potential energy; scalar; energy per charge.
Worked example
A +0.50 C charge moves through +6 V. ΔU=qΔV=0.50×6=3 J.
Guided question
A −2 C charge moves through +4 V. What is ΔU, and what does the sign mean?
Independent work
- Solve three ΔU=qΔV problems.
- Distinguish field arrows from equipotential ideas.
- Explain why voltage is not itself energy.
Misconception check
Voltage is energy per charge, not total energy by itself.
Formative check
What additional quantity is needed to convert voltage change into energy change?
Reveal response
Charge q.
Mentor evidence conference
Ask Archaemenes to audit sign conventions, vector/scalar distinctions, units, and model assumptions.
Teacher guidance
Foundation: Use a sign/energy table.
Core: Solve potential-energy changes with signed charge.
Extended: Connect field direction to decreasing potential for positive test-charge motion.