WATTMETER Meaning and
Definition
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A wattmeter is an electrical measuring instrument used to measure the power consumption or generation in an electrical circuit. It is specifically designed to measure the amount of electrical energy, often referred to as power, in watts (W).
The wattmeter typically consists of two main components: a current coil and a potential coil. The current coil is connected in series with the electrical circuit, allowing the measurement of current flowing through it. The potential coil is connected in parallel with the circuit, enabling the measurement of voltage drop across that circuit. These coils create a magnetic field proportional to the current and voltage, respectively.
Using the principle of electromagnetic induction, the wattmeter calculates the power by multiplying the instantaneous values of current and voltage, resulting in the product of volt-amperes. The power factor, which indicates the phase angle between current and voltage, is also considered during the power calculation to determine the true power in watts.
Wattmeters can be analog or digital. Analog wattmeters employ a moving coil mechanism that deflects a pointer on a calibrated scale, while digital wattmeters use digital displays to show the measured power accurately.
Wattmeters are commonly used in various applications, such as electrical utilities, industrial power systems, and residential environments, to monitor and analyze power consumption, optimize energy usage, and ensure the efficient operation of electrical systems.
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An apparatus for measuring electrical activity or power.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for WATTMETER
- qattmeter
- aattmeter
- sattmeter
- eattmeter
- 3attmeter
- 2attmeter
- wzttmeter
- wsttmeter
- wwttmeter
- wqttmeter
- wartmeter
- waftmeter
- wagtmeter
- waytmeter
- wa6tmeter
- wa5tmeter
- watrmeter
- watfmeter
- watgmeter
- watymeter
Etymology of WATTMETER
The word "Wattmeter" has a relatively straightforward etymology. It is derived from two main components: "Watt" and "meter".
1. "Watt": The term "Watt" is named after Scottish engineer James Watt, who lived from 1736 to 1819. James Watt is known for his significant contributions to the development of the steam engine during the Industrial Revolution. The watt (symbol: W) is the unit of power in the International System of Units (SI), named in honor of James Watt for his groundbreaking work on improving the efficiency of steam engines.
2. "Meter": The term "meter" comes from the Greek word "metron", meaning "measure". It is used to denote an instrument or device used for measuring various quantities. In the context of "Wattmeter", the term refers to the instrument used to measure electrical power in watts.
