Kilowatt

Definition

A kilowatt (kW) is a unit of power equal to 1,000 watts. It is commonly used to measure the rate at which energy is consumed or produced.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 1 kilowatt equals 1,000 watts.
2. Kilowatts are often used to quantify the power output of engines and the energy consumption of appliances.
3. Electricity bills typically measure energy usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh), where 1 kWh equals using 1 kilowatt for one hour.
4. In environmental contexts, reducing kilowatt consumption can lead to lower carbon footprints.
5. Renewable energy sources like solar and wind power are often measured in kilowatts or megawatts.

Review Questions

• How many watts are in a kilowatt?
• Why is it important to understand kilowatts when managing household energy consumption?
• What does a measurement of 'kilowatt-hour' represent?

Related terms

watt: A unit of power equal to one joule per second.

kilowatt-hour:

A unit of energy equivalent to one kilowatt of power used for one hour.

megawatt: A unit of power equal to one million watts or one thousand kilowatts.