1. What is the Electrical Power Formula?

The electrical power formula calculates the rate at which electrical energy is transferred by an electric circuit. The basic formula is P = V × I for DC circuits, and P = V × I × PF for AC circuits where power factor is involved.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the electrical power formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: For DC circuits, power factor is 1. For AC circuits, power factor represents the phase difference between voltage and current.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Calculating electrical power is essential for designing electrical systems, determining energy consumption, sizing components, and ensuring electrical safety.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (1 for DC circuits). 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 flowing to the load to the apparent power in the circuit, ranging from 0 to 1.

Q2: What's the difference between real power and apparent power?
A: Real power (P) is the actual power consumed, measured in watts. Apparent power (S = V × I) is the product of RMS voltage and current, measured in VA.

Q3: When is power factor not 1?
A: In AC circuits with inductive or capacitive loads where current and voltage waveforms are out of phase.

Q4: How can I improve power factor?
A: Using power factor correction capacitors for inductive loads or synchronous condensers can improve power factor.

Q5: Does this formula work for three-phase power?
A: For balanced three-phase systems, use P = √3 × V × I × PF where V is line-to-line voltage.