Final answer:
Electrical devices are typically faster and more efficient than mechanical ones, a component with operation under one or two volts is considered low-voltage, and an actuator uses electricity to perform work. Power is measured in watts and denotes how quickly energy is used rather than the duration a device is on.
Step-by-step explanation:
1. Electrical devices can do the job of mechanical devices more quickly and efficiently due to the inherent speed and precision of electrical systems, which can be manipulated almost instantaneously and tailored through electronic circuits.
2. When a component uses less than one or two volts for operation, it is low-voltage. These components are designed to work with a minimal electric potential, making them suitable for small, sensitive electronic devices or low-power applications.
3. A(n) actuator is a conventional component that uses electricity to do work. It converts electrical energy into mechanical force or motion, fulfilling the same purpose as mechanical devices but typically with greater control and efficiency.
Power in electrical appliances is measured in watts, which represents the rate at which energy is consumed or converted into another form. The wattage rating doesn't change based on how long a device is on; a device only consumes power when it's active. However, total energy consumption is often expressed in kilowatt-hours, a unit that measures energy usage over time, making it easier to calculate for billing and comparison purposes.
A spark of static electricity carries a high power level but lasts for a very short time and with a very small total energy, which is why it doesn't injure you. Additionally, the current and voltage in such a static discharge are not sufficient to cause harm to the human body.