APPARENT POWER

In alternating-current power transmission and distribution, the product of the rms voltage and amperage . Note 1: When the applied voltage and the current are in phase with one another, the apparent power is equal to the effective power , i.e., the real power delivered to or consumed by the load . If the current lags or leads the applied voltage, the apparent power is greater than the effective power. Note 2: Only effective power, i.e., the real power delivered to or consumed by the load, is expressed in watts. Apparent power is properly expressed only in volt-amperes, never watts. See diagram under effective power.