What is reactive in the unit VAR?

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In summary, "reactive" in the unit VAR refers to the complex part of voltage or current, also known as the "imaginary" or "phantom" power. It plays a role in power transmission efficiency and is measured with transducers similar to Watt transducers.
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what is "reactive" in the unit VAR?

what is "reactive" in the unit VAR?
 
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Reactive refers to the complex part of voltage or current.

It is a bit confusing for most to think in terms of "imaginary", but one way to think of it is "phantom" power. :rolleyes:

See this discussion with respect to real, reactive and apparent power -
http://www.allaboutcircuits.com/vol_2/chpt_11/2.html
 
  • #3
thank you very much! :)
 
  • #4
I think you can think of it, in power transmission terms, as power being sent back to the source due to an unmatched system. Thus reducing the transmission efficiency. In the power industry, one measures Vars with transducers much like Watt transducers with some phase shifting.

Regards
 
  • #5
thank you again! :)
 

1. What does "reactive" mean in the unit VAR?

In the context of a unit VAR (Volt-Ampere Reactive), "reactive" refers to the reactive power of an electrical circuit. This is the power that is used to create and maintain electric and magnetic fields in the circuit, rather than being used to do work. It is measured in volt-amperes reactive (VAR) and is necessary for the proper functioning of electrical equipment.

2. How is reactive power different from active power?

While active power (measured in watts or kilowatts) is the power that is actually used to do work, reactive power (measured in VAR) is the power that is used to maintain the voltage and current in an electrical circuit. It does not perform any physical work, but is necessary for the proper functioning of electrical equipment.

3. What is the purpose of reactive power in a unit VAR?

The purpose of reactive power in a unit VAR is to maintain the voltage and current levels in an electrical circuit. This is important for the proper functioning of electrical equipment, as fluctuations in voltage and current can cause damage to the equipment. Reactive power helps to stabilize the circuit and ensure that the equipment receives a consistent and reliable power supply.

4. How is reactive power measured in a unit VAR?

Reactive power is measured in unit VAR (Volt-Ampere Reactive). This is a unit of measurement that combines the voltage and current of an electrical circuit to determine the reactive power. It is typically measured using specialized equipment such as power analyzers or oscilloscopes.

5. What are some common sources of reactive power in a unit VAR?

Some common sources of reactive power in a unit VAR include inductive loads, such as electric motors, transformers, and fluorescent lighting. These devices require reactive power to create and maintain the magnetic fields necessary for their operation. Capacitors can also be used to supply reactive power to a circuit, helping to reduce the overall demand for it from the power grid.

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