Power

Power is the rate at which something does work over a period of time

The equations for work and power can be combined to simplify problem solving.

​Since W = Fd and P = W/t,

We can say that P = Fd/t

Work and Power

Remember! The faster the work is done, the more power. Energy is transferred faster too!

An engine reaches its top speed in 7.5 s.
It performs 250,000 J of work in that time.
What is the engine’s power?

Given

(w/ Units):

Formula:

Substitution
(w/ Units):

Answer

(w/ Units):

An engine reaches its top speed in 7.5 s.
It performs 250,000 J of work in that time.
What is the engine’s power?

Given

(w/ Units):

Formula:

Substitution
(w/ Units):

Answer

(w/ Units):

work = 250,000 J

time = 7.5 s

P = w ÷ t

P = 250,000 J ÷ 7.5 s

33,333 W

More about POWER!

Can you change how much power you exert?

Yes! If you do work faster, then you will exert more power.

Practice is POWERful!

Open up those workbooks!

Complete section 6.1 review on pages 64-65.