What are the three types of electric power?
GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer
In AC electrical systems, there are three types of power:
- Real Power (P) - Measured in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW), this is the actual power consumed and converted to useful work (heat, light, motion). It's the power you pay for on your electricity bill.
- Reactive Power (Q) - Measured in volt-amperes reactive (VAR or kVAR), this power oscillates between source and load without doing useful work. It's required by inductive loads like motors and transformers to create magnetic fields.
- Apparent Power (S) - Measured in volt-amperes (VA or kVA), this is the total power flowing in the circuit, combining both real and reactive power. The formula is: S = √(P² + Q²).
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