A volt is a unit of measurement for electric potential difference, which indicates how much electrical energy is available to move electric charges through a circuit. It is named after the Italian scientist Alessandro Volta, who invented the first chemical battery. One volt is defined as the potential difference that will drive one ampere of current against one ohm of resistance. In practical terms, volts help us understand how powerful an electrical source is. For example, a standard household outlet in many countries provides about 120 volts, while some devices, like batteries, may provide 1.5 volts. Understanding volts is essential for working with electrical systems and ensuring safety.