Distinguish between renewable and non-renewable sources of energy. Outline how electricity is generated in a thermal power station. Describe the different types of renewable energy sources.
Fossil Fuels
We know that energy comes from a chemical reaction and that any substance that burns in oxygen to produce heat is a fuel.
We use energy for many things – to heat our homes, cook our food and run our cars. The energy for these things mostly comes from the chemical energy stored in fossil fuels.
Fossil fuels were formed millions of years ago from the remains of plants and animals.
Fossil fuels are non-renewable sources of energy. This means that they will eventually run out.
Coal, oil and natural gas are fossil fuels. Powering with Fossil Fuels
Power stations can burn coal, oil or gas to generate electricity. We will look at how a coal-fired power station works. 1. When the coal burns, it heats water. This produces steam.
2. The steam is forced through pipes and has a large amount of kinetic energy. It transfers the kinetic energy to a turbine, which in turn spins a generator.
3. The generator converts the kinetic energy into electricity. This electricity is sent to homes via power lines.
4. Once the steam has been used to turn the turbines, it loses energy and turns back into water. It is then recycled back to the start to be reheated.
Steam cooled in cooling towers z Fig. 24.1.1 Moneypoint power station
Moneypoint in County Clare is a coal-fired power station. It is the largest electricity generation station in Ireland.
Using what you learned in Physical World 16.2, draw an energy transfer diagram to show the useful energy transfers between the coal that powers Moneypoint and a hairdryer plugged in at your home.
