Definition 1 of 2
Definition
In an alternating current (AC) circuit, the product of the voltage and the current, expressed in volt-amperes (VA). It represents the total power that appears to be supplied to the circuit, including both the power actually consumed (true power) and the power that oscillates back and forth between the source and reactive components such as inductors and capacitors.
Plain English
It is the power that looks like it is being delivered to an AC circuit when you simply multiply voltage by current, even though some of that power is not actually doing useful work.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft electrical system discussions, especially with alternators, generators, inverters, transformers, and other alternating-current equipment.
Derivation
From Latin apparere, 'to appear or come into view.' The name fits: it is the power that appears to be supplied based on a simple voltage-times-current measurement, even though part of it is not being consumed by the load.
Why Pilots Care
Technicians use it to size generators and wiring correctly so the aircraft electrical system does not overheat or lose capacity under real load.
Grounding Statement
In an AC circuit, some electrical energy can move back and forth in the circuit instead of being used, so the source may have to handle more total demand than the useful work alone suggests.
Intuition Check
“Apparent” does not mean imaginary or unimportant here. It means the total power demand shown by voltage multiplied by current, whether or not all of it becomes useful work.
Example Sentence 1
The technician calculated the apparent power of the AC generator by multiplying the output voltage by the load current.
Example Sentence 2
Generator capacity calculations always start with the total apparent power of all AC equipment on board.