Chapter 14, Problem 1RQ

To determine

The fundamental sources of energy.

Answer to Problem 1RQ

The fundamental sources of energy are sun, gravity, photosynthesis, chemical reactions, nuclear energy, and Earth’s internal heat.

Explanation of Solution

There are many sources of energy that operates on the Earth. Solar energy is one of the primary energies that operate by the nuclear fusion reactions in the Sun. It can be used to produce heat and it can also be converted to electric energy.

The tides produced by the gravity between earth-moon and earth-sun drive the turbines and produce energy. Solar energy heats the air and results in the movement of air masses, which is called wind. This drives the sail of ships and wind mills.

The process of photosynthesis helps various photosynthetic plants, algae, and other organisms to grow. The wood and biomass thus produced is used for the production of ethanol. The fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and natural gas are used as a source of energy.