Electricity
Electrical Power
To calculate electrical power and explain how current and resistance affect the rate of energy transfer.

What you will learn

What electrical power means

Why power is measured in watts

How to calculate power using current and voltage

How to calculate power using current and resistance

Why a larger current increases resistive heating
Explanation
Electrical power is the rate of energy transfer in a component. Use P = VI; for a resistor, combining V = IR gives P = I²R. A higher power rating means more energy is transferred per second under the stated operating conditions. Example: A component operates at 60 V and 2.5 A. Calculate its power. P = VI = 60 × 2.5 = 150 W. Use the stated equation and consistent units to obtain a numerical result, then check whether its size and direction fit the physical situation. Give a reason. Compare cases.
