What Does hp Represent in Power Units?

[sybozo]

What does the unit "hp" means?

I admit that my physics sucks because it has been a long time since I heard the word "physics" but putting that aside, what does the unit "hp" represent/means? I don't remember learning that unit in school.

Eg. An engine develops 85hp

I'm guessing it's a Power unit and if it is, would it be like 85 hp = 8500 watts/J? or would it just be 85hp?

 

[jtbell]

hp = horsepower. Exactly how big it is depends on the horse.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower

Google Calculator gives a value of 1 hp = about 746 watts.

 

[sybozo]

hp = horsepower. Exactly how big it is depends on the horse.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horsepower

Google Calculator gives a value of 1 hp = about 746 watts.

Thank you very much for replying!

 

[Chestermiller]

1 horsepower = 550 ft-lb/sec.

 

[Nickie]

You are correct, "hp" is a unit of power and stands for horsepower. It is commonly used to measure the power output of engines and motors. One horsepower is equivalent to 746 watts, so in your example, the engine is producing 63,410 watts (85 horsepower x 746 watts per horsepower). It is important to note that horsepower is a unit of power, not energy, so it cannot be directly converted to joules. I hope this helps clarify the meaning of "hp" for you.