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Energy Transformations
Any one of the forms of energy can be converted into another form. Often, a series of energy conversions is needed to complete a job. For example:
- Plants capture light energy from the sun and convert it into chemical energy during the process of photosynthesis.
- Wind turns a wind turbine to produce mechanical energy, which activates an electrical generator to produce electricity for a radio.
Automobiles
Most automobiles require some type of fuel in order for it to crank.
- The fuel stores chemical potential energy within its molecules.
- This energy is converted by the engine into thermal energy.
- Then it's converted into mechanical energy, which makes the car move.
Remember thermal energy is also heat energy. As the engine continues to run, its temperature increases. This is an indicator that some of the energy from the fuel is being converted to heat instead of mechanical energy.
Fire
Have you ever roasted marshmallows over a camp fire? A fire converts chemical energy that is stored in the wood into thermal energy. The thermal energy keeps you warm and is good for roasting those marshmallows to make s'mores.
Electrical Energy
Electrical devices such as hair dryers, toasters, and televisions all convert electrical energy into other forms.
- A flat iron, an electric toaster and a stove all convert electrical energy into thermal energy.
- A television converts electric energy into sound and light energy.
- Lightbulbs convert electric energy into light energy.
- A hair dryer converts electrical energy into thermal and sound energy.
Food
When you eat:
- Your body converts the chemical potential energy from the food into usable energy for you to function.
The chemical potential energy is absorbed and supplies your cells with the necessary nutrients providing your body with energy.
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