1. What is the Power Formula?

The power formula P = V × I is a fundamental equation in electrical engineering that calculates electrical power in watts. It relates voltage (V), current (I), and power (P) in electrical circuits.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: This formula calculates the electrical power consumed or produced in a circuit by multiplying the voltage across the component by the current flowing through it.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Power calculation is essential for circuit design, energy consumption analysis, electrical safety assessments, and determining appropriate component ratings 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, P = V × I directly. For AC circuits with resistive loads, it's the same, but with reactive loads, power factor must be considered.

Q2: Can this formula be used for three-phase systems?
A: For three-phase systems, the formula is P = √3 × V × I × PF (where PF is power factor) for balanced loads.

Q3: What are typical power ratings for household appliances?
A: Typical ratings range from 10W (LED bulb) to 2000W (electric heater) for common household devices.

Q4: How does power relate to energy consumption?
A: Energy (kWh) = Power (kW) × Time (hours). Power indicates instantaneous consumption, while energy represents total consumption over time.

Q5: What safety considerations are important for power calculations?
A: Always ensure components are rated for the calculated power, consider heat dissipation, and follow electrical codes to prevent overheating and fire hazards.