Why is U the symbol for voltage (Volts)?

In Ohm’s law the following symbols are used, “U” for voltage (Volts),

“I” for current (Amperes) and “R” for resistance (Ohms). I can assume that eg “I” for intensity and “R” for resistance, but “U” for voltage (Volt) ?

Asker: Willy, 60 years

Answer

Dear Willy,

The “U” for tension comes from the Latin “urgere,” which literally means “to push, to drive, to corner.” You can also find the U in the German “Unterschied” (referring to the potential difference).

Why is U the symbol for voltage (Volts)?

Answered by

dr. Karolien Lefever

Aeronomy: Atmosphere of planets, air quality, climate, ozone layer, … Earth, Mars, Venus, Jupiter, comets, meteors, …

Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy
Ringlaan 3 1180 Brussels
http://www.aeronomie.be/

.

Recent Articles

Related Stories