Context

Electrical power is one of the main physical quantities in the context of electricity. Its study is of utmost importance for us to understand how electrical energy is generated, transmitted, and consumed in our society. Knowing how to calculate electrical power is a crucial skill, whether for professionals in the engineering field or for common users who wish to make more conscious and efficient choices regarding energy usage.

Electrical power corresponds to the rate of energy conversion per unit of time. In the International System of Units, power is measured in watts (W), in honor of engineer James Watt. In an electrical circuit, power can be calculated from the electric current (in amperes) and the electric voltage (in volts), through the formula P=IV.

The generation, transmission, and consumption of electrical energy are fundamental aspects of modern life. From the simple task of turning on a light bulb to more complex operations such as running hospitals, factories, and data centers, electricity is present in our daily lives in various forms. Understanding electrical power and its practical implications can help us make more informed decisions about how we use energy.

Practical Activity: 'Simple Circuit and Electrical Power Calculation'

Project Objective

The objective of this project is to understand the relationship between current, voltage, and electrical power, through the construction of a simple electrical circuit. The activity ranges from theoretical discussion to practical application, with the construction of the circuit and subsequent calculation of the consumed electrical power.

Detailed Project Description

Students, divided into groups of 3 to 5, will first explore the concept of electrical power, using the provided bibliographic references as a basis. They will then design and build a simple electrical circuit, containing a resistor (which can be a small light bulb), an ammeter, a voltmeter, and a power source (battery or cell).

With the circuit assembled, students will record the electric current (I) measured by the ammeter and the voltage (V) measured by the voltmeter. From these values, they will calculate the electrical power (P) consumed by the circuit using the formula P = IV.

Finally, students will prepare a report with the project steps, the measurements taken, and the electrical power calculations.

Required Materials

• 1 resistor or a small light bulb
• 1 ammeter
• 1 voltmeter
• 1 power source (battery or cell)
• Wires for connecting the components
• Multimeter (in case the measuring instruments are not available individually)

Step by Step

1. Divide into groups of 3 to 5 students.
2. Discuss the concept of electrical power in the group, using the provided bibliographic references.
3. Draw the circuit diagram to be assembled, identifying all components and connections.
4. Connect the components according to the drawn diagram.
5. Turn on the circuit and observe the measurements of the ammeter and voltmeter.
6. Record the current and voltage values observed in the circuit.
7. Calculate the electrical power consumed by the circuit using the formula P = IV.
8. Discuss and interpret the results obtained.
9. Prepare a report with the project steps, the measurements taken, and the electrical power calculations.

Project Deliverables

The group must deliver the following:

• Drawings and/or photos of the constructed circuit.
• Table with current and voltage measurements and electrical power calculation.
• Final report that includes:
  1. Introduction: Detailed description of the electrical power concept and its importance.
  2. Development: Detailed description of the process, including the circuit construction steps, the measurements obtained, the power calculation, and the interpretation of the results.
  3. Conclusions: Return to the main points, explanation of what was learned, and reflections on the project.
  4. Bibliography: List of references used in the project.

Students should focus on connecting the project activities with the sections of the report. The construction of the circuit and the measurements taken should be the basis for the development section. The results and interpretations for the power calculation should be explained in the development and conclusion sections, while the importance of the electrical power concept can be discussed in the introduction and conclusion.