Why Is There a Negative Sign When Calculating Power with P=IV?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculation of power using the formula P=IV, where voltage (V) is 24V and current (I) is 4A. The user encounters a negative sign in the calculation, which indicates that the current is flowing in the opposite direction to the voltage reference. This situation typically arises in circuit analysis when considering passive versus active components, where a negative power value signifies power absorption rather than power supply.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ohm's Law
  • Familiarity with circuit analysis concepts
  • Knowledge of passive and active components in electrical circuits
  • Basic proficiency in using the power formula P=IV
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of passive sign convention in electrical engineering
  • Learn about the differences between active and passive components
  • Explore circuit analysis techniques using Kirchhoff's laws
  • Investigate the implications of negative power in circuit design
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineering students, circuit designers, and anyone involved in power calculations in electrical systems.

taalha
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i want to calculate the power supplied or absorbed by a source whose voltageis 24V and current is of 4A in the circuit. i used formula
P=IV ... but their is a negative sign with current ... please tell me why is it so ? Thanks
 
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taalha said:
i want to calculate the power supplied or absorbed by a source whose voltageis 24V and current is of 4A in the circuit. i used formula
P=IV ... but their is a negative sign with current ... please tell y is it so ? Thanks


Why does 4 * 24 give you a negative sign?
 

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