Kilowatt: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'kilowatt' comes from the prefix 'kilo-' meaning 'one thousand', combined with 'watt', named after Scottish engineer James Watt.
• The watt is defined as the power of one joule per second, highlighting a connection to energy consumption over time.

Energy Science

• One kilowatt equals 1,000 watts, making it a convenient way to express electrical power for large appliances.
• A typical kettle might use about 2-3 kilowatts of power, which helps translate energy use into relatable terms.

Historical Context

• The use of the watt as a unit of power became standardized in the late 19th century during the rise of electrical engineering.
• Kilowatts became an important measure with the expansion of electrical networks in cities, facilitating trade and residential use.

Pop Culture

• In many recent films and shows, futuristic vehicles are often shown running on clean energy measured in kilowatts, representing a move towards renewable sources.
• Video game power meters often display energy consumption in kilowatts to emphasize the importance of managing energy use.

Technology

• Modern solar panels are rated based on the kilowatt-hours they can produce, showcasing their efficiency in converting sunlight into power.
• Smart home devices often track usage in kilowatts to help homeowners manage energy consumption and save on bills.

Ranked #12,247, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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