Energy -- What Is It?
Energy can be defined as “the ability to perform work”. The measurement of energy provides a framework for scientists to study the different forms of energy, the usage of energy, and the efficiency of energy. Energy can be classified in its two main forms, namely, potential and kinetic energy. Potential energy is stored energy in matter while kinetic energy is energy in a moving object.
What is Electricity?In the science of physics, electricity is an important concept. When there’s movement in electric charges, electricity is generated. The two types of electricity are static electricity and electric currents. Electricity can be used to do work when electrons move in a circuit.
Generators, Turbines, and Power PlantsMechanical energy is transformed into electrical energy by generators. The two types of generators are the alternating current generator and the direct current generator. Rotating machines known as turbines are used to produce current water. Electricity can also be produced from other sources of energy. For instance, sunlight is used to produce electricity in photoelectric power plants.
Geothermal EnergyGeothermal energy is described as energy produced from the earth’s internal energy. Known to be a renewable energy, it’s becoming more popular as there are now 21 countries that are using geothermal energy to produce electricity. Logically, geothermal resources are located in regions with high concentration of earthquakes and volcanoes.
Fossil Fuels -- Coal, Oil, and Natural Gas
Coal, oil, and natural gas are known as fossil fuels because they have to be burned to produce energy. This energy is then transformed into electricity in power plants. Composed of hydrocarbons, coal, oil, and natural gas can be found beneath the surface of the earth. A major concern with the use of fossil fuels is that the byproducts produced by the burning can result in mild or severe health hazards.
HydropowerHydropower is a form of renewable energy which can be used to produce electricity. Generated by the kinetic energy of moving water, hydropower can be used in many ways. Hydropower is a clean and safe form of energy because it does not bring about any detrimental substances.
Nuclear Energy -- Fission and FusionNuclear energy is described as energy which is produced by nuclear reaction, artificially or naturally. There are two methods to produce nuclear energy, namely, nuclear fission and nuclear fusion. Nuclear fission refers to the splitting of large nuclei to produce energy. Nuclear fission refers to the combination of many small nuclei to produce energy.
Ocean EnergyOcean energy is produced by the ocean’s current, tides, waves, and thermal resources. The ocean’s surface waves are used to produce wave energy while its daily tides are used to produce tidal energy. Together, tidal energy and wave energy are known as ocean mechanical energy. Beneath the ocean floor, there are also non-renewable energy resources like natural gas and petroleum.
Solar EnergySolar energy is described as the light ort radiant heat from the sun. One way to trap heat directly from the sun is to use a solar collector. It works by absorbing light form the sun, transforming it into heat, and trapping it within. If solar power can be harnessed properly, it’s an important source of energy because it’s easily accessible, economically beneficial, and safe for the environment.
Wind EnergyWind energy refers to energy which is produced by wind. By using a wind turbine, the kinetic energy of wind is transformed into mechanical or electrical energy. Clean and renewable, it’s friendly to the environment because it doesn’t pollute the air or water.
Electricity Transmission SystemAn electricity transmission system is used to transfer bulk packages of electricity to end users. The power station is connected to a number of substations by a transmission network known as a electric grid. Electricity is then relayed through power lines in the form of alternating current.
Natural Gas Distribution SystemPipes are used to send natural gas into power plants to generate electricity. The natural gas distribution system also provides gas to the neighborhood via smaller pipes. In residential areas, natural gas goes through the meter, and charges are calculated according to the amount of gas used.
Energy for TransportationWithout energy, most of the world’s transport would not be functioning. The production, maintenance, and operation of vehicles require a high amount of energy. It’s estimated that transportation uses roughly 55% of the world’s oil and 25% of the world’s energy. As petroleum resources are shrinking and environmental issues are growing, there’s a constant need to discover alternative fuels.
Saving Energy and Energy Efficiency
Saving energy is extremely important because a lot of the energy resources are not renewable. Everybody can help to conserve energy by switching off electricity appliances and lights when they are not being used. An energy monitor can be used to determine the economical usage of energy. Recycling also helps to save energy.
Household Appliances
One way to save a considerable amount of energy your home uses is to make sure your household appliances are performing efficiently. Having Energy Star certified appliances can make a huge difference annually on energy bills and consumption. Although purchasing one of these appliances like a GE Microwave has a higher cost, homeowners quickly recoup the extra money and more by owning these energy efficient appliances. You can find out more about Energy Star products by visiting their site.
If purchasing new appliances is out of the question, you can breathe new life into your appliances by making sure they are working properly with updated Appliance Parts. If your GE appliance is suffering from worn or damaged parts, it could have a considerable effect on the amount of energy it uses. Purchasing parts for your home appliances is relatively inexpensive and only requires a bit of your own time to eliminate these inefficiencies. By far, Maytag Parts and Whirlpool Parts are the easiest and most cost-effective parts to purchase for a quick update on an old appliance.