What is meant by the term "voltage drop" in an electrical circuit?

The term "voltage drop" in an electrical circuit refers to the difference in voltage between the source (the power supply) and the load (the component or device receiving power). This drop occurs as electrical energy is converted to other forms of energy (such as heat, light, or motion) in the load due to resistance within the conductors and components. As current flows through the circuit, some of the voltage is used to overcome this resistance, which is reflected in a lower voltage measured at the load compared to the original voltage supplied by the source.

This understanding is crucial in circuit design and analysis, as excessive voltage drop can lead to inefficient operation of electrical devices, causing reduced performance or even failure to operate. Thus, recognizing that voltage drop is the change in voltage from supply to load is essential for troubleshooting and maintaining electrical systems.