In electrical terms, what does wattage indicate?

Wattage indicates power in electrical terms. Power is the rate at which energy is consumed or produced in a circuit, and it is measured in watts. A watt is defined as one joule per second, providing a measurement of how much work is being done by electric energy over time. This concept is integral in understanding how electrical devices operate and how much energy they require to function efficiently. The association of wattage with power is crucial for determining the energy consumption of appliances and ensuring that the electrical systems can handle the loads placed on them, promoting safe and effective use of electrical devices.