0
Closed

What are the differences between the power equations on the equation sheet?

Student 3 10 years ago updated by Physics Tutorial Center Admin 9 years ago 2

There are three different equations on the equation sheet for power (like P = IV, P = V^2/R, P = I^2*R). How do I know when to use each one?

Active

Try watching these two videos I have made to help with your question. In the first video, I cover the derivation of the first and most general expression for power: P = IV.

In the second video, I derive the expressions for power delivered to an Ohmic device. Starting with P = IV, I derive the other expressions using Ohm's Law V = IR. At the end, I highlight when to use each equation.

Hopefully these videos help. Please ask any questions you have regarding any inclarities you may have.