How does the power factor of 0.9 lagging affect the apparent power drawn by a load?

A power factor of 0.9 lagging indicates that the load is consuming both real power and reactive power, with the real power being the useful power that does work and the reactive power being associated with the energy storage in inductive elements. The power factor is a measure of how effectively the current is being converted into useful work output and is defined as the ratio of real power (measured in watts) to apparent power (measured in volt-amperes).

In this case, when the power factor is 0.9, it means that the ratio of real power to apparent power is 0.9. To maintain this power factor, the apparent power must account for this ratio. Thus, the apparent power will be calculated using the formula:

Apparent Power (VA) = Real Power (W) / Power Factor.

As the power factor decreases (moving from 1 down towards 0), the apparent power has to increase to maintain the same level of real power. Therefore, when dealing with a power factor of less than 1, such as 0.9, the apparent power will indeed increase to satisfy the requirements for the load's demand.

In conclusion, while a power factor of 0.9 does allow