Although power plants require several steps to transform potential energy into – [Free] B66
Although power plants require several steps to transform potential energy into electrical energy, other devices do this more simply. For example, a battery converts chemical energy to electrical energy in one step. List three other devices that convert energy from one form to another. For each one, name the types of energy involved.
Devices That Convert Energy More Simply Than Power Plants
Answer:
Unlike power plants, which typically undergo multiple stages of energy transformation, certain devices perform direct energy conversions—often in just one or two steps. Below are three such devices along with the energy forms they convert:
🔹 Solar Panel
A solar panel converts radiant energy (from sunlight) directly into electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect.
Energy Conversion: Radiant Energy (Sunlight) → Electrical Energy
🔹 Wind Turbine
A wind turbine transforms the kinetic energy of moving air into electrical energy. The rotating blades drive a generator to produce electricity.
Energy Conversion: Kinetic Energy (Wind) → Electrical Energy
🔹 Internal Combustion Engine
This engine converts the chemical energy stored in fuel directly into mechanical energy through combustion, which powers vehicles and machines.
Energy Conversion: Chemical Energy (Fuel) → Mechanical Energy