Skip to content

What is the formula for calculating power in an electric circuit?

GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer

There are three main formulas for electrical power, all interconnected through Ohm's Law:

  1. P = V × I (Power = Voltage × Current)
  2. P = I² × R (Power = Current² × Resistance)
  3. P = V² / R (Power = Voltage² / Resistance)

When to use each:

  • Use P = V × I when you know both voltage and current
  • Use P = I² × R when you know current and resistance
  • Use P = V² / R when you know voltage and resistance

Example: A circuit with 12V and 2A flowing through it: P = 12 × 2 = 24 watts

General · Class 12