Active & Reactive Power

The most significant difference between the active and reactive power is that the active power
is the actual power which is dissipated in the circuit. Whereas, the reactive power is the
useless power which only flows between the source and load. The other differences between
the active and reactive power are explained below in the comparison chart.

The active, apparent and real power induces in the circuit only when their current lags behind
the applied voltage by an angle of Φ. The right-angled triangle shown below shows the
relation between the active, reactive and apparent power.

Where, S – apparent power

Q – reactive power
P – Active power

Single Phase Current

S=UI (2a)

where

U = electric potential (V)

I = current (A)

Three Phase Current

S = 31/2 U I
 = 1.732 U I (2b)

Active Power - P
Active - or real or true - power do the actual work in the load. Active power is measured
in watts (W) and is the power consumed by electrical resistance.

Single Phase Current

P = U I cos φ

= U I PF (3a)

where

φ = phase angle between the electrical potential (voltage) and the current

PF = cos φ

= Power Factor

Three Phase Current

P = 31/2 U I cos φ

= 1.732 U I PF (3b)

Direct Current
P=UI (3c)

Reactive Power - Q
Reactive power is the imaginary or complex power in a capacitive or inductive load. Reactive
power represents an energy exchange between the power source and the reactive loads
where no net power is gained or lost. The net average reactive power is zero. Reactive
power is stored in and discharged by inductive motors, transformers, solenoids and
capacitors.

Reactive power should be minimized because it increases the overall current flowing in an
electric circuit without providing any work to the load. Increased reactive currents only
provides unrecoverable power loss due to power line resistance.