1. What is a Watts Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines electrical power in watts based on voltage and current using Ohm's Law.

Purpose: It helps electricians, engineers, and DIY enthusiasts calculate power consumption or generation in electrical circuits.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: Power is calculated by multiplying the voltage across a circuit by the current flowing through it.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Understanding power consumption helps in designing electrical systems, selecting proper components, and calculating energy costs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the voltage in volts and current in amps. Both values must be greater than 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between watts and volt-amps?
A: Watts represent real power, while volt-amps represent apparent power. They're equal in DC circuits or AC circuits with purely resistive loads.

Q2: Can I calculate current if I know watts and voltage?
A: Yes, use the formula \( I = \frac{P}{V} \).

Q3: What's a typical household voltage?
A: In North America, 120V for standard outlets and 240V for large appliances. Europe uses 230V.

Q4: How do watts relate to energy consumption?
A: Energy (watt-hours) = Power (watts) × Time (hours). 1000 watt-hours = 1 kilowatt-hour (kWh).

Q5: What's the power factor in AC circuits?
A: For AC circuits with reactive components, the formula becomes \( P = V \times I \times \text{power factor} \).