In this part of the course we are learning about thermodynamics, the study of th
ID: 1318700 • Letter: I
Question
In this part of the course we are learning about thermodynamics, the study of the transfer of heat from object to object and the work that can be done in the process.
Virtually all energy in the United States today comes from fossil fuels. In our homes, the energy of choice is electrical energy, but this energy was obtained by a thermodynamic process involving burning fossil fuels to create heat from which turbines are driven to generate the electricity.
The second law of thermodynamics tells us that any form of an energy transformation is inefficient, resulting in the creation of waste heat. Fossil fuels pose two problems:
Generation of waste heat (as well as air pollution) as chemical energy stored in the fossil fuel is converted to either mechanical or electrical energy.
Creation of waste carbon dioxide gas as the fossil fuels are burned.
Alternative energy has been nicknamed "green energy", and consists of any form of energy that is not derived from a fossil fuel. Over the next few decades it will be in the strategic interest of the United States to develop the technology to utilize these alternative forms of energy.
For an initial thread on this forum:
Find out about an alternative form of energy that is either in use somewhere in the world, is in the developmental stage, or is a theoretical future source of energy (this may include increased efficiency of existing technologies).
where this energy is being used, or where it is being developed or researched
a brief explanation of how this form of energy works or what it is
Include a reference for your information. If you obtained it from a website, provide a link to the site.
Alternative Energy Discussion
In this part of the course we are learning about thermodynamics, the study of the transfer of heat from object to object and the work that can be done in the process.
Virtually all energy in the United States today comes from fossil fuels. In our homes, the energy of choice is electrical energy, but this energy was obtained by a thermodynamic process involving burning fossil fuels to create heat from which turbines are driven to generate the electricity.
The second law of thermodynamics tells us that any form of an energy transformation is inefficient, resulting in the creation of waste heat. Fossil fuels pose two problems:
Generation of waste heat (as well as air pollution) as chemical energy stored in the fossil fuel is converted to either mechanical or electrical energy.
Creation of waste carbon dioxide gas as the fossil fuels are burned.
Both of these problems contribute to global warming, which if remains unchecked, will cause world-wide climate changes, shifts in agricultural productivity, a rise in sea level, and the intensification of severe storms and hurricanes.
Alternative energy has been nicknamed "green energy", and consists of any form of energy that is not derived from a fossil fuel. Over the next few decades it will be in the strategic interest of the United States to develop the technology to utilize these alternative forms of energy.
For an initial thread on this forum:
Find out about an alternative form of energy that is either in use somewhere in the world, is in the developmental stage, or is a theoretical future source of energy (this may include increased efficiency of existing technologies).
Write up a short explanation that tells us about this energy alternative and post as an initial thread. Be sure to make clear in the subject what type of alternative source of energy you are describing. Do not cut and past, summarize the content in your own words.Your posting should include:
where this energy is being used, or where it is being developed or researched
a brief explanation of how this form of energy works or what it is
Include a reference for your information. If you obtained it from a website, provide a link to the site.
Explanation / Answer
Scientists are racing to perfect greener sources of energy to improve the environment and reduce dependence on oil and other fossil fuels. Some predict a hydrogen economy. Others say solar is the way to go. Wilder schemes involve sky-high wind turbines or antimatter engines.
Solar
If things go according to plan, construction on a giant solar tower could begin in Australia in 2006. The 3,280-foot tall tower will be surrounded by a vast greenhouse that will heat air to drive turbines around the base of the tower. It is estimated that the power station will be able to generate 200 megawatts of electricity, enough to power 200,000 households.
Solar energy requires no additional fuel to run and is pollution free. Sunlight can be captured as usable heat or converted into electricity using solar, or photoelectric, cells or through synchronized mirrors known as heliostats that track the sun
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