(EGY) Forms of Energy Lesson

Forms of Energy

Forms of Energy transcript Links to an external site.

Energy takes many forms in the world around us. Each form of energy can be converted to and from other forms of energy. Most people are familiar with sound, light, and electrical energy. Electrical energy is used in our homes to produce sound from our televisions, light from a lamp, and thermal energy for cooking and heating. Electrical energy is energy transferred by an electric current. Light energy, sometimes referred to as radiant energy, is the energy related to the movement of light particles and electromagnetic waves.  Sound energy is energy transferred via sound waves and vibrating particles. Nuclear energy is stored in the nucleus of atoms and is released when the nucleus splits or is fused together. Thermal energy, also known as heat energy, is the energy of an object due to its temperature caused by the internal motion of the particles. Chemical energy is stored in the bonds that hold atoms together in molecules. When fuels or foods are broken down, chemical energy is converted to heat energy or to mechanical energy. Mechanical energy is the energy of matter that is in motion.

For a visual explanation of how energy is transferred, please watch the video below. In this video, Mr. Anderson uses a simulation to provide examples of energy transfer.  As you watch the video, you should be focused on examples of how energy is transferred from one form to another.  

Here is another example showing energy transformations.  You can see below the energy transformations that occur while toasting bread.  As you can see, energy is transformed from one form to another in this process.

Toaster Energy Transformations Links to an external site.

You will need to be able to determine what energy transformations are occurring in a given system.  For example, what energy transformations are needed to grow food, move a car, heat a pot, or ride a bicycle? You want to think about what form of energy is needed for the input and the output. Remember, that the total amount of energy is always conserved and that many steps can occur to get the required results.  

To test your knowledge of energy transformations, please answer the quiz questions below.

Directions:   Determine the energy transformations that are occurring for the following situations:

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