Watt is the SI unit of power and is defined as the rate of energy transfer per unit of time. Combining all other base units of SI such as kilogram (kg), meter (m), and second (s), constructs the standard defining constants.

After the name of a Scottish inventor and engineer named James Watt (1736-1819), the term watt was coined. He was popularly known for his input in the Industrial Revolution by bringing improvements to steam engine technology.

Measuring and Calculating Watt

The measurement of Watt is done using the formula of one watt equal to one joule (J) per second:

W = J/s

Here joule is the SI unit of energy or work, which is expressed in terms of kilograms, meters, and seconds:

J = kg∙m2∙s-2

Combining the two above-mentioned formulas, the watt can be derived by using the following formula:

W = J/s = (kg∙m2∙s-2)/s = kg∙m2∙s-3

The rate of energy radiation, absorption, and dissipation per unit of time is watt in the case of electromagnetic energy application.

Watt can also be calculated by multiplying one volt with one amp:

W = VA

Also See: 20+ Most Powerful Highest Watt Solar Panels

What is Kilowatt?

A kilowatt is a unit of power having the symbol kW. According to the SI unit, one kilowatt equals 1000 watts. The preference for measuring electricity usage in watts is primarily because most appliances consume a significant amount of electricity. James P. Joule was a mathematician who coined the term kilowatt in 1890 for measuring the amount of electrical energy mainly consumed through light bulbs.

1kW= 1000 W

In today’s time, kW is used for measuring the power output of machines and devices of all kinds. The usage of kilowatts is done for either the things that generate power such as power plants, solar panels, wind turbines, and generators, or that use power such as air conditioners, refrigerators, electric stoves, etc.

Also Read: What is Energy Star?

What is Lumen?

Lumen is the unit of measurement of illumination (lumens) per unit amount of power (watts). Different devices emit varying amounts and qualities of light depending on the power setting.

The brightness of a light bulb is determined by its luminous efficacy. The luminous efficacy needs to be determined for different devices that run on different power. Lumen measurements are most helpful in selecting the correct light bulb as it determines the level of brightness.

Are Lumens or Watt the Same?

Both lumen and wattage are important parameters for deciding upon buying a particular light bulb.

  • Lumen and watt are different as the former measures the illumination per unit of power whereas the latter measures the rate of energy transferred per unit.
  • The lumen numbers are looked after to check the brightness level and then the wattage tells us about the energy consumption of a particular bulb in use.

With just these two factors, we can easily choose the perfect light bulb that meets our needs. To choose the most energy-efficient bulb, opt for one that offers high light output while consuming the lowest wattage possible.

Recommended: What is Green Electricity?

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Elliot is a passionate environmentalist and blogger who has dedicated his life to spreading awareness about conservation, green energy, and renewable energy. With a background in environmental science, he has a deep understanding of the issues facing our planet and is committed to educating others on how they can make a difference.

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