Energy Transformations Standard Explain energy transformations in terms

Energy Transformations Standard: Explain energy transformations in terms of the law of conservation of energy.

The law of conservation of energy states that: • Energy is never destroyed • Energy is never created • Energy may be transformed, or changed, from one form to another • Energy is constantly changing forms

Energy has many forms (radiant) thermal

Energy can change from one form to another. Example: The electrical energy of a doorbell is changed to sound energy.

Most conversions are more complex. Example: Gasoline is ultimately converted into energy that moves the car.

In almost all energy conversions, some energy is released as heat (or thermal energy). Example: Chemical energy (from the batteries) to electrical energy to light and heat

A rock rolling down the hill gravitational potential to kinetic and heat (from friction of the rock against the earth)

Turning on a light bulb… electrical to light (radiant) and heat energy

Listening to the radio… electrical to sound and heat energy

Photosynthesis… radiant (sunlight) to chemical (glucose)

A nuclear power plant… Nuclear to heat (thermal) to electrical

In a power dam… mechanical (turning the turbine) to electrical (generating electricity) and heat (due to friction within the generator)

A turbine in a dam on the Niagara River in New York

Dams on the Niagara River-New York and Canada

From the sun… radiant (sunlight) to thermal (water heater)

Name two devices in your home that convert energy from one form to another. Example: toaster Example: washing machine Example: telephone