Question

How is potential gradient measured?

Answer 1

Explanation:

1. According to the definition, the potential gradient is the potential difference (the decrease in potential from the high potential end) divided by the wire's length. It represents the slope along which potential is changing, in other words.
2. The potential difference per unit length is the potential gradient. By changing the potential difference unit or voltage and length, one can get the SI unit of the potential gradient. $\frac{Volt}{Meter}$ is the unit of potential difference as a result.
3. Know that the length and potential difference are the two key components in the definition of a potential gradient.
4. Therefore, to determine a wire's potential gradient, we must first determine the potential difference between its ends. Next, we must precisely determine the wire's length with the aid of a measuring device. Following this, we will divide the potential difference by the wire's length to obtain the necessary potential gradient value.
5. While the electric field's amplitude and electric potential's gradient are equal, the electric field's direction is the opposite of the potential's gradient, making $\overrightarrow{E}=-\overrightarrow{\nabla V}$ the correct formula.