Y9S1 Unit 4 - Generating Electricity

Frequency

the number of complete wavelengths that pass a point in a given time

Photovoltaic cell

Solar energy cells, usually made from silicon, that collect photons to generate electricity.

Transverse Wave

A wave that causes the medium to vibrate at right angles to the direction in which the wave travels

Longitudinal Wave

A wave in which the particles of the medium vibrate in the same direction as the wave travels

Perpendicular

Intersecting at or forming right angles

Parallel

In the same direction

Crest

Highest point of a wave

Trough

Lowest point of a wave

Amplitude

Height of a wave

Compression

The part of a longitudinal wave where the particles of the medium are close together.

Rarefaction

a part in a longitudinal wave where the particles are spread apart

Wavelength

The distance between two corresponding parts of a wave

Period

The time taken for a particle to complete one complete vibration

Wave Speed

the speed at which a wave travels through a medium

Medium

matter through which a wave travels

Visible Light

electromagnetic waves that are visible to the human eye

Electromagnetic Spectrum

All of the frequencies or wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation

Speed of light

300,000 km/s

Photon

A particle of electromagnetic radiation with no mass that carries a set amount of energy

Convection

Process by which, in a fluid being heated, the warmer part of the mass will rise and the cooler portions will sink.

Conduction

Form of heat transfer where heat energy is directly transferred between molecules through molecular collisions or direct contact.

Radiation

The transfer of energy by electromagnetic waves

Turbine Generator

A generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.

Mechanical Energy

Kinetic or potential energy associated with the motion or position of an object.

Magnetic Field

A region around a magnetic material within which the force of magnetism acts.

Wind Power

The use of a windmill to drive an electric generator

Hydroelectricity

electricity generated by the kinetic energy of moving water

Wave Power

power obtained by harnessing the energy produced by waves at sea.

Geothermal Energy

Energy derived from the heat in the interior of the earth

Biomass Energy

The chemical energy stored in living things.

Biofuels

A fuel derived directly from living matter.