Definition of reactive power in power system

What is reactive power in Electrical Engineering?

Reactive power is a term used in electrical engineering that refers to the power consumed by reactive components in an alternating current (AC) circuit. In an AC circuit, the current and voltage may not be in phase due to the presence of reactive components like inductors and capacitors.

What is reactive energy?

As the pendulum swings back down reactive power is moving back into the grid to be absorbed. In these types of definitions, experts would say that reactive energy is energy circulating back and forth between the source and the load, specifically, that reactive power “fades” back toward a source.

What is the difference between reactive power and real power?

To distinguish reactive power from real power, we use the reactive power unit called “VAR” – which stands for Volt-Ampere-Reactive. Voltage in an electrical system is analogous to pressure in a water system. Current in an electrical system is analogous to the flow of water in a water system.

What causes reactive power?

The specific causes of reactive power are as follows: Inductors: Inductors are passive electrical components that store energy in the form of a magnetic field when a current flows through them. When the current changes, the magnetic field collapses, releasing the stored energy back into the circuit.

What is reactive power in alternating current system?

Explanation for reactive power says that in an alternating current system, when the voltage and current go up and down at the same time, only real power is transmitted and when there is a time shift between voltage and current both active and reactive power are transmitted.

How does reactive power work?

By injecting or absorbing reactive power, voltage levels can be maintained within acceptable limits, ensuring that electrical devices and equipment receive the required voltage for proper operation.