Energy and Thermodynamics: Part 1

The two types of energy are potential energy (stored energy) and kinetic energy (energy of motion).

The first law of thermodynamics states that although energy cannot be created nor destroyed, it can be transformed from one form to another.

Examples of energy transformations include: 1) Sunlight being transformed into glucose bonds, and 2) Energy in gasoline being transformed into mechanical energy that powers pistons.

<p>The first law states that the amount of energy in an isolated system stays constant.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The second law of thermodynamics states that as energy is transferred and transformed, more and more of it is wasted, and entropy (a measure of disorder) increases.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Sunlight provides the Earth with a continual input of energy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Heat always transfers from hot body to cold body. For example, boiling water cools its surroundings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Energy conversions aren't perfect, as some energy is always lost as heat.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>100% efficiency</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>0.25 or 25%</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Heat is low-quality energy, and because of this, it cannot be used for work.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Usable energy</p> Signup and view all the answers