What is reactive in the unit VAR?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of "reactive" power as measured in volt-amperes reactive (VAR). Participants explore its meaning, implications in power transmission, and its relationship with real and apparent power.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants define "reactive" as relating to the complex part of voltage or current, suggesting it can be thought of as "phantom" power.
  • Another participant describes reactive power in terms of power transmission, indicating it involves power being sent back to the source due to an unmatched system, which can reduce transmission efficiency.
  • There is mention of the measurement of VARs using transducers similar to those used for measuring watts, with considerations of phase shifting.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion does not reach a consensus on the definition and implications of reactive power, with multiple perspectives presented without resolution.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference concepts like real, reactive, and apparent power, but the discussion does not clarify the relationships or definitions in detail, leaving some assumptions and definitions potentially unresolved.

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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
 
thank you very much! :)
 
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
 
thank you again! :)
 

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