Energy resources

What energy transfers occur when generating electricity using wind?

Kinetic energy from moving air turns turbines, which transfer energy electrically.

What energy transfers occur when generating electricity using water?

Gravitational potential energy of water is transferred to kinetic energy as it falls, then to electrical energy via turbines.

What energy transfers occur in geothermal power?

Thermal energy from underground heats water into steam, which drives turbines to generate electricity.

What energy transfers occur in solar heating systems?

Thermal energy from sunlight heats water or air directly.

What energy transfers occur in solar cells?

Light energy from the sun is directly converted into electrical energy.

What energy transfers occur in fossil fuels?

Chemical energy in fuels is released by burning, producing heat to make steam, which drives turbines for electricity generation.

What energy transfers occur in nuclear power?

Nuclear energy is released from fuel (like uranium), used to heat water into steam, which drives turbines and generates electricity.

What are the advantages of renewable energy sources?

Sustainable, low emissions, reduces fossil fuel use.

What are the disadvantages of renewable energy sources?

Often weather dependent, high initial costs, land use impacts.

What are the advantages of non-renewable energy sources?

Reliable, high energy output, existing infrastructure.

What are the disadvantages of non-renewable energy sources?

Produces pollution, contributes to climate change, finite resources.