What does the term "voltage drop" mean?

Voltage drop refers to the reduction in voltage that occurs when electrical current flows through a circuit, particularly across conductive components such as wires, connectors, and resistors. This phenomenon is essential to understand in electrical systems because it can affect the performance and efficiency of the circuit.

When current travels from the power source to the load (such as a light fixture or motor), it encounters resistance in the wiring and other components. This resistance causes energy to be dissipated, leading to a decrease in voltage as the electrical energy is converted to heat. The difference in voltage from the source, like a battery or transformer, compared to the voltage at the load is what is known as voltage drop.

Understanding voltage drop is crucial for ensuring that loads receive sufficient voltage for proper operation. If the voltage drop is too high, it can result in inadequate power delivery, causing lights to dim or motors to underperform. Therefore, the term "voltage drop" captures the critical concept of how voltage diminishes throughout a circuit and its implications for electrical system design and troubleshooting.