1. What is Wattage?

Wattage (measured in watts, W) is the rate at which electrical energy is transferred by an electric circuit. It represents the amount of work done by electricity per unit time.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the fundamental power equation:

Where:

• \( W \) — Wattage (watts)
• \( V \) — Voltage (volts)
• \( A \) — Current (amperes)

Explanation: The equation shows that power in watts equals the product of voltage in volts and current in amperes.

3. Importance of Wattage Calculation

Details: Calculating wattage is essential for determining electrical power consumption, sizing electrical components, and ensuring circuit safety.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts and current in amperes. Both values must be positive numbers for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between watts and watt-hours?
A: Watts measure instantaneous power, while watt-hours measure energy consumption over time (1 watt-hour = 1 watt for 1 hour).

Q2: How does wattage relate to energy bills?
A: Utility companies charge for kilowatt-hours (kWh), which is wattage multiplied by usage time (1000 watts for 1 hour = 1 kWh).

Q3: Can I calculate wattage without knowing current?
A: Yes, if you know resistance (R), you can use W = V²/R, or if you know both voltage and resistance, W = I² × R.

Q4: What's a typical wattage for household appliances?
A: It varies widely - LED bulbs (5-15W), laptops (30-100W), refrigerators (100-400W), microwaves (600-1200W).

Q5: Why is wattage important for circuit design?
A: Components must be rated for the expected wattage to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards.