4.2 describe energy transfers involving the following forms of energy: thermal (heat), light, electrical, sound, kinetic, chemical, nuclear and potential (elastic and gravitational)

4.2 describe energy transfers involving the following forms of energy: thermal (heat), light, electrical, sound, kinetic, chemical, nuclear and potential (elastic and gravitational)

For energy to be useful, we need to be able to transfer it from place to place and be able to convert it into whatever form we require. Unfortunately when we try to do so, some of the energy is converted to unwanted forms known as “wasted” energy. Eg:

Thermal energy: If we rub our hands together, kinetic energy will transform into thermal energy.

Light energy: In a filament lamp, electrical energy is converted to heat energy and light energy.

Electrical energy: In an electric generator, kinetic energy is converted to heat and electrical energy.

Sound energy: Clapping our hands will convert kinetic energy to sound and little amount of heat energy.

Kinetic energy: In a ceiling fan, electrical energy is converted to kinetic energy.

Chemical energy: In a motor car, chemical energy is converted to heat, electrical and kinetic energy.

Potential energy: Keep an object 10m above the ground. It will have gravitional potential energy in it. Remove the support, and the object will fall down. That is, potential energy is converted into kinetic energy.