Forms of Energy
Power & Energy 3201
Introduction

Law of Thermodynamics
1.
2.
Energy cannot be created or destroyed.
Energy can be converted from one form
to another.
Introduction

There are six forms of energy:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mechanical
Thermal
Nuclear
Light
Chemical
Electrical
Introduction

All forms of energy are related. Each form can
be converted into any other form.
Introduction

Examples:

Burning wood, changes chemical energy
into heat and light energy.
Introduction

Examples:


An automobile uses an engine to convert
chemical energy (fuel) into heat energy.
Heat is then converted to mechanical
energy.
Introduction

Examples:


An automobile battery converts chemical
energy into electrical energy.
Headlights convert the electrical energy
into light energy.
Forms of Energy
1. Mechanical Energy – is the energy of
motion.

Examples:



Hammer driving a nail
A falling leaf
Moving vehicle
Forms of Energy
2. Thermal (Heat) Energy – is atoms and
molecules in motion.
 The amount of heat depends on the
speed and number of atoms or
molecules in motion.
Forms of Energy

The Sun is a major source of thermal
energy.
Forms of Energy

Use heat energy to…




Cook food
Heat homes
Generate electricity
Control other types of energy (brakes of a
car applied will convert mechanical energy
to heat energy).
Forms of Energy
3. Nuclear Energy – is developed by
converting matter into energy.
Forms of Energy

Examples:



Nuclear energy is converted to heat which
produces steam and creates electricity.
Radiation therapy to treat cancer.
Nuclear submarines.
Forms of Energy
4. Light Energy – is the part of radiant
energy (sun) that we can see.
 The most abundant form of energy.
Forms of Energy

All living organisms depend on sunlight
either directly or indirectly.
Forms of Energy

Photosynthesis – the process whereby
plants convert sunlight, CO2 and water
to produce food.
Forms of Energy

Solar cells and photoelectric cells use
light energy.
Forms of Energy
5. Chemical Energy – is the energy of all
living things.
Forms of Energy

Examples:




Photosynthesis.
Fossil Fuels.
Burning gasoline converts chemical energy
to mechanical energy.
Explosives convert chemical energy to
heat, light and motion.
Forms of Energy
6. Electrical Energy – is the movement of
electrons through a conductor.
Forms of Energy

Examples:




Radio, TV, communications.
Electrical motors change electrical energy
to mechanical energy.
Electric stoves convert electrical energy to
thermal energy.
Light bulbs convert electrical energy to
light energy.
Forms of Energy
Power & Energy 3201