1. What is the Power Equation?

The power equation (P = V × I) describes the relationship between voltage, current, and power in electrical systems. It's a fundamental principle in electrical engineering and physics that allows conversion between these units.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power equation:

Where:

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

Explanation: The equation shows that power is directly proportional to both voltage and current. Doubling either voltage or current will double the power output.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Calculating power is essential for designing electrical circuits, selecting appropriate components, determining energy consumption, and ensuring electrical safety.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts and current in amps. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the power in watts.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can this equation be used for both AC and DC circuits?
A: For DC circuits, it works directly. For AC circuits, you need to consider power factor (P = V × I × PF for single-phase AC).

Q2: How does this relate to energy consumption?
A: Energy is power multiplied by time (E = P × t). Watts × hours = watt-hours, the common unit for energy consumption.

Q3: What's the difference between real power and apparent power?
A: In AC circuits, real power (watts) is what performs work, while apparent power (VA) includes reactive components.

Q4: How can I calculate current if I know power and voltage?
A: Rearrange the formula: I = P / V. Similarly, V = P / I.

Q5: What are typical household voltage and current values?
A: In North America, standard household voltage is 120V. Current varies by circuit, typically 15-20A for standard outlets.