1. What is the Electrical Power Formula?

The electrical power formula (W = V × I) calculates power consumption in watts from voltage and current measurements. This fundamental equation is essential for electrical engineering and circuit design.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the electrical power formula:

Where:

• \( W \) — Power in watts
• \( V \) — Voltage in volts
• \( I \) — Current in amperes

Explanation: The formula demonstrates the direct proportional relationship between power, voltage, and current in electrical circuits.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is crucial for determining energy consumption, sizing electrical components, ensuring circuit safety, and optimizing energy efficiency in electrical systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts and current in amperes. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between AC and DC power calculation?
A: For DC circuits, the formula W = V × I applies directly. For AC circuits, power factor must be considered: W = V × I × PF.

Q2: How does this relate to energy consumption?
A: Power (watts) multiplied by time (hours) gives energy consumption in watt-hours, which is used for electricity billing.

Q3: What are typical voltage and current values?
A: Common voltages include 120V/240V (residential) and 480V (industrial). Current varies based on device power requirements.

Q4: Can this formula be used for three-phase systems?
A: For three-phase systems, the formula becomes: W = √3 × V × I × PF, where PF is the power factor.

Q5: Why is power calculation important for safety?
A: Calculating power helps determine proper wire sizing, circuit breaker ratings, and prevents electrical overloads that could cause fires.