There are many different sources of energy, but five major categories stand out:
1. Fossil Fuels:
- Coal: Formed over millions of years from decomposed plant matter, coal is a solid fuel.
- Oil: This liquid fossil fuel, derived from marine organisms, is used in transportation and as a raw material for many products.
- Natural Gas: Composed mostly of methane, this gaseous fuel is found alongside oil deposits.
2. Renewable Energy:
- Solar Energy: Harnessing the sun's energy through photovoltaic panels and solar thermal systems.
- Wind Energy: Using wind turbines to convert wind kinetic energy into electricity.
- Hydropower: Utilizing the force of flowing water to generate electricity.
- Geothermal Energy: Taps into the heat within the earth's core.
- Biomass Energy: Burning organic matter like wood and agricultural waste to produce heat or electricity.
3. Nuclear Energy:
- This energy source derives from nuclear fission, the process of splitting uranium atoms to release heat energy.
4. Hydroelectric Energy:
- Generated by the movement of water, this source harnesses the power of rivers and tides.
5. Tidal Energy:
- Utilizing the natural rise and fall of ocean tides to generate electricity.
These five sources of energy provide the world with the power it needs, each offering different advantages and disadvantages.
