FCC Exam Question: 6A525
The product of the readings of an AC voltmeter and ammeter in an AC circuit is called what?
Explanation: In an AC circuit, an AC voltmeter measures the Root Mean Square (RMS) voltage, and an AC ammeter measures the RMS current. The mathematical product of these two readings (V_RMS × I_RMS) is defined as **apparent power**. This value represents the total power that *appears* to be delivered by the source and is measured in Volt-Amperes (VA). It is called "apparent" because it does not account for the phase difference that can exist between the voltage and current waveforms in circuits containing reactive components (inductors or capacitors). Only the portion of apparent power that is "in phase" with the voltage actually performs work and is known as "real power" or "true power," measured in Watts. Option A, "Reverse power," refers to power flowing back towards the source, which is a different concept. Option C, "Current power," is not a standard electrical term. Therefore, apparent power (B) is the correct term for the product of AC voltage and current readings.
6A584
6A191
6A563
6A546
6A166
Pass Your FCC Exam!
Study offline, track your progress, and simulate real exams with the GMDSS Trainer app.
Includes Elements 1, 3, 6, 7R, 8, and 9.