Physics n00b Problem - Power Conversion

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SUMMARY

Power conversion in electrical circuits is defined by the equation P = IV, where P represents power in watts, I is current in amperes, and V is voltage in volts. In the case of a torch bulb rated at 3V and 0.5A, the power conversion can be calculated as follows: P = 3V * 0.5A = 1.5W. This confirms that the power consumed by the bulb during normal operation is 1.5 watts, demonstrating the direct relationship between voltage, current, and power in electrical systems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ohm's Law (V = IR)
  • Basic knowledge of electrical units (voltage, current, power)
  • Familiarity with the concept of watts as a measure of power
  • Ability to perform simple algebraic calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance using Ohm's Law
  • Explore the concept of power factor in AC circuits
  • Learn about different types of electrical loads (resistive, inductive, capacitive)
  • Investigate the implications of power conversion in energy efficiency and consumption
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for electrical engineering students, hobbyists working with circuits, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamentals of power conversion in electrical systems.

Seraph
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Power Conversion (Amps & Voltage)

What exactly is Power Conversion in relation to Voltage and Current?
 
Last edited:
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If you mean, what's the power in a circuit, then the equation is:

P=IV ,where P is power, I is current, and V is voltage.

Using V=IR, you can convert that to whatever you need.
 
Well the question I have is as follows:

"A torch bulb has 3V; 0.5A written on the packet.

Calculate the power conversion for the bulb in normal use."


So do I need to use the formula - see I'm unsure with the units. Would the answer therefore be 1.5 something?
 
Can Anyone Help?
 
V is measured in J/C, I in C/s, so IV in (J/C)(C/s)=J/s=W or Watts.
 
k thanks a lot
 

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