Types of Energy Sources

Energy is in the form of potential or kinetic. Potential energy is the form that is stored and not in use. For instance, a compressed spring that is ready to be released has potential energy. Kinetic energy is the form that is in motion. Heat is a form of kinetic energy. The atoms vibrating quickly are in motion, so they hold a large amount of kinetic energy. Each type of energy has several forms and sources that are used to provide the energy necessary for life.

Electrical

Electrical energy sources are from the movement of electrons. A natural energy source is from lightening, which is a powerful force of electrical energy. When electrons move through a medium such as a wire, current is created. It's this type of energy that is harnessed by engineers in power plants and sent to homes to provide lighting and electricity for appliances.

Radiation

Radiant energy is provided by sources such as ultraviolet rays from the sun. Radiation provides the energy for medical diagnostic technology through the use of X-rays, gamma rays and radio waves. Radiation is also harmful to humans, so it is not used as often as electrical energy. However, solar panels that harness UV lights from the sun can be used to power homes.

Heat

Thermal energy is provided using heat. Heat is a natural source that is a byproduct of chemical reactions. As reactions occur, heat is emitted. Heat speeds up atoms and causes them to vibrate vigorously. The vibrations emit energy. A simple source for heat energy is fire.

Nuclear

Nuclear energy is stored in the attraction of atomic particles. The strong force that holds atoms together is a form of potential energy. When atoms are split, the potential energy is released, providing a high amount of energy. The source of this energy is in radioactive elements such as uranium. Uranium is used in nuclear power plants where engineers split atoms for energy and power.

Chemical

Chemical energy is another form of potential energy. Energy is stored in the bonds that hold atoms together. When these bonds are broken, energy is formed. Conversely, creating bonds requires energy. An example of a high-energy bond is methane. Methane is highly reactive and contains a large amount of potential energy within its bonds.

References

• doe.gov