Why is Transmitter Output Called Power?

In mathematics, a power of a number indicates repeated multiplication. For example, 'x to the third power' means 'x multiplied by itself three times.' One formula for electric power is current to the second power times resistance. Electrical power therefore is proportional to the second power of current. Another formula for electrical power is voltage to the second power divided by resistance. Electrical power therefore is also proportional to the second power of voltage. Transmitter output is called power because it is proportional to the second powers of both current and voltage. However, as you can see, it can be more precisely described as 'second power,' but few people will understand if you describe it that way. ©2004 Tigertek, Inc. All rights reserved.

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