The term for energy consumed when devices are turned off, commonly referred to as standby power, is called what?

• A. Primary/Dry Cell
• B. Loads
• C. Phantom Load
• D. Renewable Resource

Answer: (C)

Standby power is the energy used by devices even when they’re off or in a low-power standby mode. This constant, small draw is called phantom load (also known as vampire power). It happens because many devices keep some circuitry alive to respond to remotes, maintain clocks, or stay ready to power up quickly. Even though the amount is tiny per device, it adds up across many gadgets and over time can noticeably affect energy bills. The other terms don’t describe this phenomenon: a primary or dry cell is a type of battery; loads refers to devices that consume power when operating, not when off; a renewable resource is an energy source like sunlight or wind. So phantom load best captures the concept of energy used while devices are off.