What is the primary function of a wattmeter?

The primary function of a wattmeter is to measure electric power, which is the rate at which electrical energy is consumed or produced in a circuit. Power is typically expressed in watts (W), and a wattmeter combines measurements of voltage and current in order to calculate the power in an electrical system. This measurement is crucial in various applications, including monitoring energy usage, evaluating the efficiency of electrical systems, and managing electricity supply.

Understanding the role of a wattmeter is essential for electrical engineers and technicians, as it provides important insights into the performance of electrical circuits. While measuring electric resistance, current, and voltage are also important tasks in electrical work, a wattmeter specifically focuses on providing a direct readout of power consumption or generation, which makes it invaluable in both residential and industrial settings for energy management and accounting.