1. What is the Power Formula?

The power formula (P = V × I × PF) calculates real power in watts from voltage, current, and power factor. It's fundamental in electrical engineering for determining the actual power consumed by AC circuits.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Real power in watts (W)
• \( V \) — Voltage in volts (V)
• \( I \) — Current in amperes (A)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, between 0 and 1)

Explanation: The formula accounts for both the magnitude of voltage and current, as well as their phase relationship through the power factor in AC circuits.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is crucial for circuit design, energy consumption estimation, electrical system sizing, and determining the actual work performed by electrical devices.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (between 0 and 1). All values must be valid (voltage > 0, current > 0, 0 ≤ PF ≤ 1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is power factor?
A: Power factor is the ratio of real power to apparent power, representing the phase difference between voltage and current in AC circuits.

Q2: What's the difference between real power and apparent power?
A: Real power (watts) is the actual power consumed, while apparent power (VA) is the product of voltage and current without considering phase.

Q3: When is power factor not 1?
A: In circuits with inductive or capacitive loads (motors, transformers, etc.) where current and voltage are out of phase.

Q4: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Residential areas typically have PF around 0.95-1. Industrial settings with motors might have PF as low as 0.7-0.8.

Q5: How can I improve power factor?
A: Power factor correction capacitors can be added to counteract inductive loads and bring PF closer to 1.