We explain the examples of electric energy. The electric energy is carrying a conductive material through which circulating electrons . It comes from the kinetic energy of these particles, when they go from a point A, with a higher electric potential, to a point B, with a lower electric potential. It is one of the most important forms of energy for daily life, because it provides us with services and other types of energy that we need.
Electric energy is capable of transforming into:
- Thermal energy
- Radiant energy
- Mechanical energy
- Magnetic energy
Units of measurement of electrical energy
Like all forms of energy, electrical energy is measured in Joule (J), which is the International System (SI) unit of energy. As they are often confused with other electrical quantities, the fundamental ones are listed below:
- Electric charge: Coulomb (C)
- Electric current: Ampere (A) = Coulomb every second (C / s)
- Electrical resistance: Ohms (Ω)
- Potential difference: volts (v)
- Electrical power: Watt (W) = Joules every second (J / s)
Electric power sources
Electric energy can be produced on a smaller or larger scale, for fun or for use. Its main sources can be:
- Rubbing between two surfaces
- Electrochemical cells
- Hydroelectric plants
- Thermoelectric plants
The friction between two surfaces as a latex balloon against hair or bear against a PVC tube, causing electrons arising both surfaces. This is how static electricity arises, which is felt as a mild electric field around rubbed objects. This electrical energy is brief and is used for school experiments.
The electrochemical cells are formed by an electrolytic solution (water with an ionic substance such as sodium chloride NaCl), two electrodes (different metal rods) and a battery connected to the electrodes. As the current passes from the battery to the cell, one electrode (positive, anode) will release its electrons towards the other (negative, cathode). This creates more electricity.
In hydroelectric plants , the current of a river or a large body of water is used, making it pass through gates with electric generators. This force that it carries rotates the rotors of the generators so that electrical energy is produced. From there, it is led through the lines to the homes of a community or the buildings of a company.
In thermoelectric plants , high molecular weight fuels, such as fuel oil (also called tar), are burned to generate a large amount of heat. This heat will evaporate water, and the water vapor produced will have a very high pressure, and with it it will push the turbine of an electric generator. The electricity produced will be conducted through the lines to the homes of a community or the buildings of a company.
Electric Power Examples
- The electrical energy that feeds a microwave oven to emit these electromagnetic waves towards the food to be heated.
- The electrical energy that powers a toaster to heat its resistance and transfer the heat to the pieces of bread.
- The electrical energy that activates the alarm systems connected to a home or a business building.
- The electrical energy that runs a washing machine.
- The electrical energy that runs a tumble dryer.
- The electrical energy that a spark plug receives to inject into the gasoline-air mixture in an internal combustion engine.
- The electrical energy contained in an electrochemical cell, such as a car battery.
- The electrical energy that powers a personal computer.
- The electrical energy that is generated when we rub the latex of a balloon against the hair.
- The electrical energy that flows through the urban line to power the homes of a city.
- The electrical energy that lights an electric light bulb.
- The electrical energy that powers the speakers of a sound system.
- The electrical energy that a spark delivers to ignite an electric stove.
- The electrical energy from which lightning is made, and which results from the rubbing of particles in the atmosphere.
- The electrical energy that powers dash panels in automobiles.
