Difference Between Active & Reactive Power

The most significant difference between the active and reactive power is that the active power is
the actual power which is dissipated in the circuit. Whereas, the reactive power is the useless
power which only flows between the source and load. The other differences between the active
and reactive power are explained below in the comparison chart.

The active, apparent and real power induces in the circuit only when their current lags behind the
applied voltage by an angle of Φ. The right-angled triangle shown below shows the relation
between the active, reactive and apparent power.

Where, S – apparent power

Q – reactive power
P – Active power
Comparison Chart
Basis for
Compariso Active Power Reactive Power
n

Definition The active power is The power which moves back and forth between the
the real power load and source such type of power is known as the
which is dissipated reactive power
in the circuit.
 Basis for
Compariso Active Power Reactive Power
n

Formula

Measuring Watts VAR

Unit

Represented P Q
By

Causes Produces heat in Measures the power factor of the circuit.

heater, light in
lamps and torque
in motor.

Measuring Wattmeter VAR Meter

Instrument
Definition of Active Power
The power which is dissipated or do the useful work in the circuit is known as the active power.
It is measured in watts or megawatts. The active power is denoted by the capital alphabet P. The
average value of power in the circuit is given by the expression.

The active power derives the circuit and load.

Definition of Reactive Power

The reactive power moves between the source and load of the circuit. This power is not doing
any useful works on the load. Q represents the reactive power, and it is measured in VAR. The
reactive power is stored in the circuit, and it is discharged by the induction motor, transformer or
by solenoids.

Key Differences between Active and Reactive Power

 The active power is the real power consumes by the load. Whereas, the reactive
power is the useless power.
 The active power is the product of the voltage, current and the cosine of the
angle between them. Whereas, the reactive power is the product of voltage and
current and the sine of the angle between them.
 The active power is the real power, and it is measured in watts. While the
reactive power is measured in VAR.
 The letter P represents the Active power, and the Q represents the reactive
power.
 The torque that develops in the motor, the heat dissipated in the heater and the
light that emit through the lamps all these produces because of the active
power. The reactive power determines the power factor of the circuit.
 The wattmeter measures the active power, and the VAR meter is used for
measuring the apparent power.
Conclusion
The active power does the useful work in the circuit. And the reactive power merely flows in the
circuit without doing any useful work.