Ohm.—The Unit of resistance. A volt divided by an ampère.

Ohm’s Laws.—Laws, investigated by Ohm, regulating electrical current magnitudes. Calling the current C, electro-motive force E, and resistance R: the expression is

CurrentE. M. F.Resistance.
C = E ⁄ R, amps.   E = C × R, volts.   R = E ⁄ C, ohms. 
([See Electrical Measurements].)

Osmose.—The process of diffusion of liquids through a porous division.

Paraffin.—An insulating substance much used in telegraphic work.

Plummer Block.—The bearing on which a shaft revolves.

Polarity.—The distinct features of the two separate poles of a magnet.

Poles.—The two ends of a magnet. The wires, plates, &c., leading from a battery.

Positive.—In a machine the wire proceeding to the lamp. In a battery the zinc plate. Sign +.

Potential.—A word used to indicate a condition for work. Difference of potential is a difference of electrical condition. Potential of a battery means its E. M. F.