Fossil fuels, such as oil, natural gas and coal, and uranium, used in nuclear fission to create heat and electricity, are currently our primary energy sources. Since they can not be replaced, they are Nonrenewable.
Where does it come from?
Energy,
so far as we are concerned, comes from only two sources: the Sun and
the decay of radioactive elements inside the Earth.
But what about oil, gas or coal, which also come from inside the Earth?
They were formed because of the energy from ancient sunshine from millions
of years ago driving life on Earth. These have formed''fossil fuels'
or 'non-renewable' energy sources.
The energy that we use every day is stored in many different ways. Some energy sources are Renewable and can be used over and over again. For example, the mechanical energy in a waterfall is renewable because rainfall replenishes the source. Solar power from the sun, wind, geothermal energy from inside the earth, biomass from plants, and hydropower from water can all be used to make electricity and are all renewable energy sources.
With
consumption rates constantly increasing, as the developing world uses
more and more energy to raise their standard of living, mankind will eventually
run out of fossil fuels. Internationally, the demand for energy is expected
to increase by 50% over the next ten years. How do we avoid the turmoil
that would surround ever-increasing fuel prices as demand outstrips supply?
The answer is Hydrogen, and fuel cells are the first step in a smooth transition to a hydrogen-based economy.
What Is Energy?
Where does it come from?
The Earth and Her Parts
Plants & Animals
Fire & Water = Hydrogen & Oxygen?
