Final answer:
The energy in joules can be calculated using the formula E = I × V × t, where I is the current in amperes, V is the voltage in volts, and t is the time in seconds.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the energy consumed in an electrical system when volts, amps, and seconds are given, you can use the formula: E = P × t, where E is the energy in joules, P is the power in watts, and t is the time in seconds. Power (P) can be calculated as the product of current (I in amperes) and voltage (V in volts), thus P = I × V. Substituting into the energy formula gives us E = I × V × t. For example, if a car outlet is rated at 20 amperes and 12 volts, the maximum power delivered is 240 watts. If we want to find the energy used over a certain period, we multiply this by the time in seconds.