Energy Sources Diagnostic Assessment

Study Notes

Energy Sources in Scientific Activity Lesson Diagnostic Assessment

Renewable Energy Sources

Renewable energy sources typically come from natural resources like the sun, wind, biomass, hydroelectricity, geothermal energy, and even ocean waves. These energy sources are considered sustainable because they can be replenished naturally.

Solar Energy

One of the most common forms of renewable energy is solar power, generated from the sun's rays by solar panels. These panels convert sunlight directly into electricity or heat for various applications.

Wind Energy

Wind turbines convert wind motion into mechanical power for generating electricity. This process involves capturing the kinetic energy of wind and converting it into electrical energy.

Hydroelectric Power

Also known as hydropower, this type of renewable energy harnesses the force of flowing water to generate electricity. By diverting a portion of the river's flow into a turbine, hydroelectric generators produce electricity.

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy utilizes the Earth's natural heat to generate electricity. Heat from underground thermal reservoirs can be accessed via drilled holes and channeled to drive steam turbines, providing sustainable energy sources.

Biomass Energy

Biomass refers to organic materials derived from plants and animals. When these materials are burned, they release heat and can be converted into electricity. Common examples include agricultural residues, wood chips, and animal waste.

Non-Renewable Energy Sources

Non-renewable energy sources are finite resources that won't be replenished within human timescales. Examples include fossil fuels like coal, natural gas, and oil, as well as nuclear energy sourced from uranium.

Fossil Fuels

Coal, natural gas, and oil are known as fossil fuels because they were formed from decomposed plant and animal remains over millions of years. Once extracted and burned, they contribute to climate change due to high greenhouse gas emissions.

Nuclear Energy

Derived from splitting atoms, nuclear energy can be considered non-renewable since the primary fuel source, uranium, is limited. However, it produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels.

Description

Assess your knowledge on renewable and non-renewable energy sources used in scientific activities. Learn about solar energy, wind energy, hydroelectric power, geothermal energy, biomass energy, fossil fuels, and nuclear energy.