Energy Types and Sources: Renewable and Non-Renewable

Energy

Energy is a physical quantity associated with the ability to produce changes in bodies. It is measurable and expressed in Joules. (1 cal = 4.19 J) (1 kWh = 3,600,000 J)

Types of Energy

Mechanical Energy

The sum of kinetic and potential energy.

Kinetic Energy

Energy possessed by a moving body.

Potential Energy

Energy possessed by a body due to its position (e.g., height).

Electrical Energy

Generated by the movement of electrically charged particles, producing electrical current.

Internal Energy

Energy held within bodies due to the movement of their molecules or atoms.

Electromagnetic/Radiant Energy

Transmitted through space without a material medium.

Chemical Energy

Energy stored in chemical compounds, released during chemical reactions.

Nuclear Energy

Obtained from atomic nuclei through fission (splitting of an atom) or fusion (combining atoms).

Thermal Energy (Heat)

Transferred between bodies at different temperatures.

Energy Sources

Non-Renewable Sources

Resources that do not regenerate on a human timescale, such as coal, oil, natural gas, and uranium.

  • Coal: Formed over millions of years. Types include anthracite, bituminous coal, lignite, and peat. Used for energy production, domestic use, and as raw material.
  • Oil: The most used energy source. Extracted in crude form and transported by pipelines and tankers.
  • Natural Gas: Primarily composed of methane. Transported by pipeline and used for cooking, heating, fuel, and energy production.
  • Uranium: Used as fuel in nuclear plants, which generate radioactive waste.

Renewable Sources

Continuously regenerating resources, primarily originating from solar energy.

  • Hydropower: Obtained from water stored in reservoirs and converted to energy in hydroelectric plants. Benefits include low cost and no pollution. Drawbacks include dependence on weather and potential for dam failure.
  • Solar Energy: Used as thermal energy (heating fluids) and photovoltaic energy (generating electricity). Advantages include being inexhaustible and clean. Disadvantages include variable availability and storage limitations.
  • Wind Energy: Kinetic energy from wind, converted using wind turbines. Benefits include low cost and high performance. Disadvantages include intermittency and potential harm to wildlife.
  • Biomass: Organic matter used for energy production. Benefits include low waste and less polluting biofuels. Disadvantages include low efficiency.
  • Geothermal Energy: Heat from Earth’s interior. Advantages include no waste. Disadvantages include limited geographic availability and high cost.
  • Tidal Energy: Energy from seawater movement. Advantages include being clean and inexhaustible. Disadvantages include potential ecosystem disruption and low yield.

The Future of Energy

The current energy situation requires immediate action. Key measures include developing renewable energy technologies and raising public awareness.