11.4 Electric Power

Describe the transfer of energy into, out of, or within an electric circuit, in terms of power.

• The rate at which energy is transferred, converted, or dissipated by a circuit element depends on the current in the element and the electric potential difference across it. Relevant equation: Derived equation:
• The brightness of a lightbulb increases with power, so power can be used to qualitatively predict the brightness of lightbulbs in a circuit. BOUNDARY STATEMENT AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism only expects students to analyze the transfer of mechanical and electrical energy, although students should be aware that electrical energy can also be dissipated in the form of thermal energy. TOPIC 11.5 Compound Direct Current Circuits