How do watts compare to voltage?

Watts measure power, defined as the rate at which energy is used or transmitted. In electrical systems, power is calculated as the product of voltage and current, expressed by the equation P (power in watts) = V (voltage in volts) × I (current in amperes). Therefore, while voltage represents the potential energy per unit charge (often visualized as the pressure in a water system), watts provide a measure of how much work is being done or energy consumed over time. This distinction is crucial in understanding electrical systems, as it helps differentiate between the potential to do work (voltage) and the actual performance of work (power). Recognizing the roles of both terms underscores their individual significance in electrical engineering and communication systems.