1. What is Wattage Calculation?

Wattage calculation using the formula P = I²R determines the power dissipated in an electrical circuit based on current flow and resistance. This fundamental electrical principle is essential for circuit design and analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power in watts (W)
• \( I \) — Current in amperes (A)
• \( R \) — Resistance in ohms (Ω)

Explanation: The power dissipated in a resistor is proportional to the square of the current flowing through it and the resistance value.

3. Importance of Wattage Calculation

Details: Accurate wattage calculation is crucial for determining power consumption, heat dissipation, component sizing, and ensuring electrical safety in circuits and systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter current in amperes and resistance in ohms. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the power dissipation in watts.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the relationship between Hz and wattage?
A: Frequency (Hz) affects reactive power in AC circuits, but for resistive loads, wattage is primarily determined by current and resistance using P = I²R.

Q2: Can this formula be used for AC circuits?
A: Yes, for purely resistive AC circuits, P = I²R applies directly. For circuits with reactance, additional factors must be considered.

Q3: What are typical wattage values for common devices?
A: Small electronics: 1-100W, household appliances: 100-2000W, industrial equipment: 1000W+.

Q4: How does resistance affect power dissipation?
A: Higher resistance with constant current results in higher power dissipation and more heat generation.

Q5: Why is current squared in the formula?
A: Power dissipation is proportional to the square of current because both voltage drop across the resistor and current flow contribute to power.