What does KVA stand for in electrical terminology?

KVA stands for kilovolt-amperes, which is a unit of apparent power in an electrical circuit. It quantifies the total amount of power being used effectively in a system, including both real power (which can do work, measured in kilowatts or KW) and reactive power (which does not do useful work but maintains electric and magnetic fields in the system). The term "kilovolt" indicates that the voltage is in the thousands (1,000 volts), and "amperes" refers to the current.

This unit is particularly useful in AC (alternating current) systems, where the effects of voltage and current can vary and where the concept of power factor is important. KVA is commonly used in the ratings of transformers and generators, making it critical for electrical engineers and technicians to understand and utilize this measurement correctly in various applications, including power distribution and load calculations.

The other choices each represent variations on the idea of power measurement, but they do not accurately define the term in question as it is understood in the context of electrical engineering.