In an AC circuit, what is the product of observed/measured voltage and observed/measured current known as?

The product of observed or measured voltage and observed or measured current in an AC circuit is known as apparent power. This concept combines both the real power, which performs useful work, and reactive power, which is associated with the energy that oscillates between the source and the load, without performing any useful work.

Apparent power is expressed in volt-amperes (VA) and represents the total power that flows in the circuit, regardless of whether that power is actually being converted into work (real power) or being stored and returned (reactive power). By referring specifically to the product of voltage and current, this term encapsulates both components of electrical power in AC systems.

Understanding apparent power is crucial, especially when analyzing circuits that involve inductive or capacitive elements, as it helps in power quality assessment and efficiency evaluation.