Determining a battery’s energy capacity, expressed in watt-hours (Wh), involves a straightforward calculation. Multiply the battery’s voltage (V) by its Amp-hour (Ah) rating. For instance, a 12V battery rated at 100Ah possesses a capacity of 1200Wh (12V * 100Ah = 1200Wh). This signifies the battery can theoretically deliver 1200 watts of power for one hour, or a proportionally lower wattage for a longer duration.
Understanding energy capacity is crucial for various applications. It enables accurate estimations of runtime for devices powered by batteries, facilitates informed decisions regarding battery selection for specific needs, and aids in system design and optimization. Historically, quantifying battery capacity has been essential for technological advancements, from powering early portable devices to enabling the widespread adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy storage solutions.