What is the unit used to measure electrical power?

Study for the IGCSE Physics Electricity Test. Master key concepts with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each providing hints and explanations. Prepare with confidence for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the unit used to measure electrical power?

Explanation:
Power is the rate at which energy is transferred or used in a circuit, so the unit must express energy per unit time. In electricity, power equals current times potential difference (P = V × I). The units volt and ampere multiply to give volt-ampere, which is defined as a watt. Since a watt is one joule per second, the watt is the unit for electrical power. The joule is an energy unit, not a rate; the volt measures potential difference, and the ampere measures current.

Power is the rate at which energy is transferred or used in a circuit, so the unit must express energy per unit time. In electricity, power equals current times potential difference (P = V × I). The units volt and ampere multiply to give volt-ampere, which is defined as a watt. Since a watt is one joule per second, the watt is the unit for electrical power. The joule is an energy unit, not a rate; the volt measures potential difference, and the ampere measures current.

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