Schaft Science PLTW 3.2 Sustainable Energy

sustainable

conserving an ecological balance by avoiding depletion of natural resources

emissions

substances discharged into the air (as by a smokestack or an automobile engine)

energy carrier

moves energy in a usable form from one place to another, like electricity or hydrogen

energy conservation

conserving resources through efficient and prudent use

generator

a device used to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy

power plant

any unit that converts some form of energy into electrical energy, such as a hydroelectric or steam-generating station, a diesel-electric engine in a vehicle, or a nuclear power plant

power grid

system of high-tension cables by which electrical power is distributed throughout a region

smart grid

electrical power distribution network that can transmit electricity with the capability of integrating alternative sources of electricity such as solar and wind.

sustainable engineering

engineering that focuses on the development of a sustainable future through renewable energy, wise use of natural resources, recycling, and assessment of environmental impact

transformer

a device used to increase or decrease voltage supplied to a circuit

turbine

a machine for producing power in which a wheel or rotor is made to revolve by a fast-moving flow of water, steam, gas, or air