Describe the conversion of various energy sources to electricity.

Description should include the following concepts:

Transformation of energy to electricity is done from forms provided by nature to forms that can be used by humans (e.g., wind turbines, solar panels, hydroelectric plant).

Thermal energy (e.g., steam) is converted to mechanical energy, which is converted to electrical energy.
Mechanical energy (e.g., water wheel, wind turbine) is converted to electrical energy.
Chemical energy is converted directly to electrical energy.

Energy efficiency is measured by the amount of energy lost during the conversion process.

Process/Skill Questions:

What are different ways of spinning a turbine?
Why is water so important to energy production?
How do thermal, mechanical, and chemical compare to each other in terms of overall efficiency?
What is the difference between a windmill and a wind turbine?
How is electricity converted from DC to AC?
How is efficiency calculated?
What are some examples of losses in the energy conversion process? Why is energy always lost in the process?
What factors could improve efficiency?

Teacher Resource: