Energy Resources

• We rely on the sun for most of the energy we use.
• In sunny countries, solar panels are used to collect thermal (heat) energy and light energy from the sun.
• Solar panels absorb rays of sunlight and water inside the panel heats up, providing hot water and can be used for a general heating system.
• Sun rays cells also shine on solar cells, which produces electricity.
• Solar panels and solar cells are very cost effective as there are more and more ways to use them.
• The sun heats up part of the atmosphere.
• When the sun heats up the air, it expands and creates a convection current, which is how wind is formed which also contributes to waves.
• For many people in the world, wood is the most important fuel as it warms up homes and provides heat necessary for cooking food.
• Wood is an example of a biomass fuel.
• Biomass fuel is important in places where people live by farming.
• Oil, coal, and gas are all examples of fossil fuels.
• hydrocarbon + oxygen --> carbon dioxide + water + energy
• Nuclear power is a very demanding process, however it requires strict controls due to the damage that can be cause by an accident.
• Nuclear fuel is a relatively cheap energy source, however it is expensive due to the initial cost of building the power stations and the costs of disposing of the radioactive fuel.
• Water power is one of the smallest contributors of energy.
• Water power is also known as hydroelectric power
• People use the kinetic energy of moving water to turn water wheels which then drive machinery.
• Water powers biggest contribution is in the form of hydroelectricity.
• Water is stored behind a dam and is released to turn turbines, which makes generators spin. This is a safe, clean, and reliable way of producing energy.
• The main problem with water power is the potential flooding that could damage land that was used for hunting or people and animals homes.
• Geothermal energy is where hot rocks are found at shallow depth below Earth's surface.
• To make use of geothermal energy, water is pumped down into the rocks where it boils. High pressure steam returns to the surface, where it can be used to generate energy.
• Fossil fuels are non-renewable energy sources.
• Wind, solar, and biomass are renewable energy sources.
• Factors that must be considered when choosing an energy source: Cost, Reliability, Scale, and Environmental impact.
• A small amount of hydroelectric power does no rely on the Sun's energy. Instead it uses energy from the moon to create tides.
• At a high tide, water can be trapped behind a dam. At low tides, it can be released to drive turbines and generators.
• Nuclear power makes use of nuclear fuels.
• Geothermal energy also depends on the presence of radioactive substances inside the Earth.
• Energy is released in the Sun by the process of nuclear fusion.
• Nuclear fusion requires very high temperatures and pressures.