Power Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the electrical power (wattage) based on voltage and resistance using Ohm's Law.
Purpose: It helps electricians, engineers, and electronics enthusiasts calculate power dissipation in electrical circuits.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The voltage is squared and then divided by the resistance to calculate the power dissipation in the circuit.
Details: Proper power calculation ensures components are not overloaded, helps design efficient circuits, and prevents overheating.
Tips: Enter the voltage in volts and resistance in ohms. Resistance must be greater than 0.
Q1: Why is resistance squared in the formula?
A: Actually, voltage is squared (V²). This comes from combining Ohm's Law (V=IR) with the power formula (P=VI).
Q2: What's a typical resistance value?
A: Resistance varies widely depending on the component - from milliohms in wires to megaohms in insulators.
Q3: Can I use this for AC circuits?
A: Yes, but use RMS voltage values for AC circuits to get accurate power calculations.
Q4: What if I know current instead of voltage?
A: Use P = I²R if you know current and resistance, or P = VI if you know voltage and current.
Q5: Why does resistance need to be greater than zero?
A: Division by zero is undefined, and in practice, all real components have some resistance.