Describe types of energy sources/fuels that generate electricity.

Description should include

  • thermal (e.g., steam, coal, nuclear, biomass, biogas, geothermal, Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion [OTEC], natural gas) ― internal energy of a system in thermodynamic equilibrium by virtue of its temperature; used for such things as home heating, transportation, cooking, water heating, industrial production, boilers, nuclear medicine, and x-rays
  • mechanical (e.g., wind, hydroelectric, hydrokinetic) ― energy associated with the motion and position of an object; used for such things as transportation, power production, wind turbines, and steam turbines
  • chemical (e.g., batteries, fuel, food) ― used for such things as transportation, computers, and phones
  • radiant (photovoltaic [solar], solar thermal) ― electromagnetic energy that travels in transverse waves used for heat, light, and power of solar panels.

Process/Skill Questions:

  • What are some common applications of chemical energy?
  • How is the type of energy to be used determined?
  • What type of energy is used to power batteries? Why is that the best choice?
  • What types of energy are used in the transportation industry?
  • How is electricity generated using each source of energy?