Energy use

• What is the primary function of energy in a system?

  The capacity of a system to do work or the quantity required for mechanical work to take place.
• How is energy measured?

  Energy is measured in joules (J).
• If a man transfers 100 J of energy when moving a wheelbarrow, how much energy is he transferring?

  100 J
• What are the different ways in which energy can be stored?

  • Chemical
  • Kinetic
  • Gravitational potential
  • Elastic potential
  • Thermal
• What is an energy resource?

  An energy resource is a useful supply or store of energy.
• What are fossil fuels?

  Natural, finite fuels formed from the remains of living organisms, such as oil, coal, and natural gas.
• What are nuclear fuels?

  Radioactive materials, usually uranium or plutonium, used in nuclear reactors.
• What is wind power?

  Energy generated from the moving air.
• What is hydroelectricity?

  Electricity that is generated by the movement of water.
• What is geothermal energy?

  Energy from the heat of the Earth.
• Why is energy needed in homes?

  For cooking, heating, and running appliances.
• How is energy used in public services?

  To run machinery and warm rooms in schools and hospitals.
• What is the role of energy in factories and farms?

  To operate heavy-duty machines and production chains.
• Why do transport systems need energy?

  Buses, trains, cars, and boats all need a fuel source.
• What environmental issues arise from producing and distributing electricity?

  It can cause pollution and harmful waste products.
• What gases are released from burning fossil fuels?

  Carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide.
• What was the Industrial Revolution?

  The process that transformed manufacturing from handmade to machine-made goods using water, steam, and coal power.
• How did the Industrial Revolution affect fossil fuel use?

  It caused a significant increase in the amount of fossil fuels extracted and burnt.
• How did electricity change in the 20th century?

  It became a convenient way of distributing energy for various devices and applications.
• How does energy demand vary?

  It varies with the time of year and the time of day.
• When is energy demand highest in homes?

  During early evenings for heating, lighting, and cooking.
• Why is there more energy demand in winter than in summer?

  More heating and lighting are required in winter.
• What is the primary source of global electricity generation?

  Fossil fuels.
• Why are fossil fuels still widely used for electricity generation?

  Due to their high power output compared to other energy resources.
• What is infrastructure in the context of energy resources?

  The basic structures needed for an area to function, such as roads and communications.
• How does the existing infrastructure affect fossil fuel use?

  It makes fossil fuels cheaper than setting up new alternatives.
• What has caused the development of renewable energy resources?

  The recognized impact on the environment of burning fossil fuels.
• What are renewable energy resources?

  Energy sources that are replenished and not exhausted, such as solar power.
• What is the role of nuclear power in electricity generation?

  Nuclear power stations are a growing form of electricity generation in some developed countries.
• How does nuclear fuel compare to fossil fuels?

  Nuclear fuel can release large amounts of energy compared to fossil fuels and does not emit carbon dioxide.
• What is a challenge associated with nuclear power?

  The radioactive waste produced is difficult to store and dispose of.
• What political and economic pressures influence energy resource decisions?

  Countries with economies based on oil extraction have a strong interest in fossil fuels for electricity generation.
• Why do growing countries like China continue to use fossil fuels?

  They need a large power output to keep growing their industry.
• What is the significance of energy resources in developed countries?

  Developed countries have a lot of wealth and a healthy, well-educated population.
• What is the relationship between energy resources and economic growth?

  Growing countries require energy resources to support their industrial growth.
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of fossil fuels and renewable energy sources?

  Strengths of fossil fuels:

  • High power output
  • Existing infrastructure

  
  

  Weaknesses of fossil fuels:

  • Environmental pollution
  • Finite resources

  
  

  Strengths of renewable energy:

  • Replenished resources
  • Lower environmental impact

  
  

  Weaknesses of renewable energy:

  • Higher initial costs
  • Variable energy output