Chapter 1 : Energy Basics

1.1 Energy basics for beginners

Energy is neither created nor destroyed — and yet the global demand for it continues to increase. But where does energy come from, and where does it go? Joshua M. Sneideman examines the many ways in which energy cycles through our planet, from the sun to our food chain to electricity and beyond.

A guide to the energy of the Earth - Joshua M. Sneideman

Quiz : Check how much you have learned from this video! :) Links to an external site.

(Soruce : http://ed.ted.com/lessons/a-guide-to-the-energy-of-the-earth-joshua-m-sneideman Links to an external site.)

1.2 Forms of energy

Energy can be defined as the capacity to do work. It is governed by the law of conservation of energy from the first law of thermodynamics which states that energy can be neither created nor destroyed. However, energy can change forms and can flow from one place to another.

Energy is found in nature in many forms, including:

Kinetic Energy which is energy associated with mass in motion
Potential Energy which is energy associated with position in a force field such as a gravitational, electric, or magnetic field
Chemical Energy which is energy stored in certain materials that can be released by chemical reactions
Thermal/Heat Energy which is energy associated with random molecular motions within a medium; often associated with temperature
Radiant Energy which is energy carried by light and other electromagnetic radiation

(Source : https://www.studentenergy.org/topics/energy Links to an external site.)

After we have some some basic knowledge of different forms of energy, several other forms of energy, including Mechanical wave, Electric, Magnetic, Nuclear, Ionization, Elastic, Gravitational, Rest, Mechanical work, and their theories have also been listed here:
Forms of energy Links to an external site.

1.3 Energy units

Energy is the capacity to do work but to fully understand the topic it is important to understand the various ways it is measured.

1.4 Further learning materials

Energy Literacy videos:
Energy plays a major role in the everyday functions of our planet and all its life forms. From weather patterns and food chains, to human society’s daily electricity and heating needs, energy is the driver of everything we know. This video series highlights the seven Energy Literacy Principles, which demonstrate energy’s role across the natural and social sciences.
http://energy.gov/eere/education/downloads/energy-literacy-videos Links to an external site.