Energy and Environment Key Terms

Familiarize yourself with promising energy sources by learning energy and environment key terms

People have become dependent on machines to travel, provide heat and light, communicate, and do business. All of these machines need power to run. With fossil fuels becoming scarcer, families and communities must consider new ways of generating energy.

Scientists and environmentalists who are concerned about the future have suggested several possible alternative energy sources. They look first at renewable sources, such as wind, water, and solar power. Others recommend using naturally occurring sources, such as plant waste and hydrogen. Most of these are possibilities that communities and individual homeowners should consider to help save money as well as the environment.

 

Wind energy

When the sun heats the air, wind is created. Scientists harness this kinetic energy and convert it to other forms of power, such as mechanical energy or electricity. Individuals or communities can access this renewable and non-exhaustible source of energy by installing a wind turbine.
Try: The American Wind Energy Association answers frequently asked questions about installing wind turbines.

Geothermal energy

Tapping into the energy inside the earth's core can generate hot water and steam that can heat buildings, produce electricity and power generators. To access this energy, experts usually drill deep into the ground. However, it sometimes can be found closer to the surface.
Try: The Geothermal Education Office covers the basics of using geothermal energy.

Solar energy

Every day the sun produces enough radiant energy to supply the earth's power needs. Some of that energy is reflected back and some evaporates water, but a large percentage of the sun's energy could be used for power. Devices such as solar panels capture and store that energy, which can heat homes or run appliances. Best of all solar power is free, clean and renewable.
Try: Green Building Elements lists ways to use solar power at home.

Hydropower

Hydropower is generated by swiftly moving water. When that water is channeled, it can drive waterwheels that produce energy to run machines. Used to power generators or turbines, hydropower generates electricity.
Try: GreenUsesForWaste suggests ways to use hydropower in your home.

Hydrogen

Hydrogen, the lightest gas in the universe, contains almost three times as much energy as natural gas. When hydrogen burns, its only waste product is water. Earth contains an abundance of hydrogen, but hydrogen has to be separated from other elements before it can be used. Still hydrogen may provide another solution to the energy crisis.
Try: The California Energy Commission discusses using hydrogen as an alternative energy source.

Biomass energy

Biomass energy comes from plant material and animal waste. It has the potential to supply even more energy than solar or wind power. Advocates of biomass power suggest two possibilities: growing plants to use for energy or using readily available plant or industrial waste. Wood is the most common source of energy, but other plants as well as waste products or methane gas from landfills serve as biomass energy.
Try: Alternate Energy Sources explains uses of biomass energy.

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