How can electrical power be calculated?

Electrical power can be calculated using the formula P = IV, where P represents power, I indicates current, and V signifies voltage. This relationship shows that power is directly proportional to both the amount of current flowing through a circuit and the voltage across that circuit.

This formula arises from the concept of energy transfer in an electrical system. When current flows through a circuit due to the applied voltage, electrical energy is converted into other forms of energy, such as heat or light, depending on the components in the circuit. The product of current and voltage gives a direct measure of how much energy is being consumed or produced per unit of time, commonly measured in watts.

Understanding this relationship allows for efficient design and analysis of electrical systems, ensuring that they can handle specified loads while operating safely and effectively. The other methods provided in the options do not accurately represent the relationship between voltage, current, and power in an electrical circuit.