Apparent Power vs Complex Power: Understand the Difference

AI Thread Summary
Complex power is represented as P+jQ, where P denotes real power and Q signifies reactive power. Apparent power is the magnitude of complex power, calculated as the square root of the sum of the squares of real and reactive power (√(P² + Q²)). Both complex and apparent power can be calculated using the formula S = Vrms * Irms, which involves RMS values. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for analyzing electrical systems effectively. The discussion emphasizes the importance of differentiating between these two types of power in electrical engineering.
FionaZJ
Messages
16
Reaction score
0
What is the difference between apparent power and complex power? How to differentiate them?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
:welcome:

Complex power is simply IV. It is a complex quantity, not just a single number, typically written as P+jQ, where P is real power and Q is imaginary power.

Apparent power is the magnitude of complex power, ##\sqrt {P^2 +Q^2} ##. Apparent power is just a number, not a complex quantity.
 
But both formula are S=Vrms*Irms ,right? Please correct me if i wrong.
 
Yes, RMS quantities are usually used.
 
Okay. Thank you.
 

Thread 'Why does the amperage go real high if there is a low voltage short?'

I used to be an HVAC technician. One time I had a service call in which there was no power to the thermostat. The thermostat did not have power because the fuse in the air handler was blown. The fuse in the air handler was blown because there was a low voltage short. The rubber coating on one of the thermostat wires was chewed off by a rodent. The exposed metal in the thermostat wire was touching the metal cabinet of the air handler. This was a low voltage short. This low voltage...
View full post »

Thread 'How might electronics be different if AC voltage was 72V at 45 Hz?'

Hey guys. I have a question related to electricity and alternating current. Say an alien fictional society developed electricity, and settled on a standard like 73V AC current at 46 Hz. How would appliances be designed, and what impact would the lower frequency and voltage have on transformers, wiring, TVs, computers, LEDs, motors, and heating, assuming the laws of physics and technology are the same as on Earth?
View full post »
Thread 'How Does Jaguar's 1980s V12 Dual Coil Ignition System Enhance Spark Strength?'

Thread 'How Does Jaguar's 1980s V12 Dual Coil Ignition System Enhance Spark Strength?'

I have come across a dual coil ignition system as used by Jaguar on their V12 in the 1980's. It uses two ignition coils with their primary windings wired in parallel. The primary coil has its secondary winding wired to the distributor and then to the spark plugs as is standard practice. However, the auxiliary coil has it secondary winding output sealed off. The purpose of the system was to provide a stronger spark to the plugs, always a difficult task with the very short dwell time of a...
View full post »

Similar threads

Power factor of a retrofitted LED unit in a fluorescent fitting
Replies
8
Views
2K
Alternator run at zero power factor lagging
Replies
2
Views
1K
Maxwell Linear Generator (Input Power < Output Power and losses?)
Replies
2
Views
647
Sizing an Isolation Transformer for a DC Power Supply
Replies
8
Views
2K
Summation of kVA and kVAR with Different Power Factors
Replies
8
Views
2K
How is power limited from renewable sources
Replies
10
Views
2K
Metering a Single Phase 208 VAC Circuit
2
Replies
77
Views
8K
Measuring Power output of DC generator
Replies
38
Views
4K
Powering multiple devices in a low-voltage DC circuit
Replies
18
Views
2K
Solar panel conundrum -- Not enough power?
Replies
7
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top