Jmeter -Understanding Differences between thread groups users and loop count

Ive been asked to carry out some testing to assess the response time under varying load on a api that is being developed in my current job. I’ve got a very basic knowledge of Jmeter so I’m looking at this as my chosen tool to use

Here’s quick Back ground info of what I’m tying to achieve: I want to test the API by simulating a number of unique Json calls each made by different users. Each unique Json call contains a unique user ID and item number.

lets say for example I want to test, 10 different users, all making calls for different Items to the API at once.

I’m a little confused with the terminology and difference between thread groups and users and loop count (which are found inside thread groups) and how best to use them. I couldnt find an answer on the Jmeter site or on here so have come up with what i think may be a possible approach....

From my understanding of how Jmeter works. In order for me to achieve my aim would require me to create 10 separate thread groups within the test plan, each of these having their unique Json body data configured.

For example : Thread group 1 containing request 1, Thread group 2 containing request 2, Thread group 3 containing request 3, Thread group 4 containing request 4, Thread group 5 containing request 5.... and so on. ( note, I would uncheck the option ‘run thread groups consecutively so that all requests get sent at once)

If the number of users and the loop count in each thread group is set to 1 then each call is made only once. Meaning a total of unique 10 calls would be made during a single test run?

I guess, what I’m kind of asking is in my scenario, does the term thread group actually represent unique users, and if so what does the number of threads(users) actually represent

I think ive got this right but it would be good if someone more experienced might be able to add some confirmation or advice to point me in the right direction if ive got this wrong.

Thanks in advance