Potential difference and resistance

For a continuous current to flow between two points in a circuit a potential difference (p.d.) or voltage, V, is required between them; a complete conducting path is necessary to and from the source of electrical energy. The unit of p.d. is the volt, V. Figure 2.5 shows a cell connected across a filament lamp. Current flow, by convention, is considered as flowing from the positive terminal of the cell, around
the circuit to the negative terminal.

The flow of electric current is subject to friction. This friction, or opposition, is called resistance R and is the property of a conductor that limits current. The unit of resistance is the ohm; 1 ohm is defined as the resistance which will have a current of 1 ampere flowing through it when 1 volt is connected across it,