What does voltage represent in the hydraulic analogy?

In the hydraulic analogy, voltage represents pressure. This analogy is often used to help understand electrical concepts by comparing electrical systems to hydraulic systems. In this context, voltage (electric pressure) drives the flow of electric current (similar to how water flows through pipes) through a circuit, just as water pressure pushes water through a hose.

In a hydraulic system, pressure is the force that moves the water, analogous to how voltage is required to push electric charges through a conductor. Just as increased pressure results in greater water flow, higher voltage results in greater electric current.

This understanding is essential in electrical systems, as it helps to visualize how systems behave under different pressures or voltages, and is a foundational concept in both electrical engineering and practical applications of electricity.