Energy: The BasicsPeople rarely stop to think about where the energy they use to power their everyday lives comes from and when they do it is often to ask a worried question: is mankind’s energy usage killing the planet? How do we deal with nuclear waste? What happens when the oil runs out? Energy: The Basics answers these questions but it also does much more. In this engaging yet even-handed introduction, readers are introduced to:
Featuring explanatory diagrams, tables, a glossary and an extensive further reading list, this book is the ideal starting point for anyone interested in the impact and future of the world’s energy supply. |
Contents
Water wind and kinetic energy | |
Heat steam and thermal efficiency | |
Electricity 6 Electricity from falling water | |
Electricity from steam | |
Petroleum its products and their engines | |
Nuclear energy | |
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Common terms and phrases
absorb amount of energy atmosphere battery binding energy biodiesel biomass burning called carbon atoms carbon dioxide cells century chain reaction chemical potential climate change coal collector combustion compounds compression condenser control rods converted cooling core cost countries cylinder devices diesel engine Earth effect efficiency electricity electrons emissions energy source ethanol fission flow fluid food energy fossil fuels fuel rods gases gasoline global greenhouse human hydrogen hydropower increase industry installations isotope jet engine kerogen kilometers kinetic energy material mechanical meters molecules moving natural gas needed neutrons nuclear plants nucleus octane number operate oxygen petroleum photosynthesis photovoltaic piston pollution pressure problem production protons pump radioactive reactor release solar energy speed steam engine sulfur sunlight supply temperature thermal energy United uranium warm waste waterwheel wind farm wind turbines windmill