Energy Transformation

Energy transformation or energy conversion is the process of transforming energy from one form to another. According to the law of conservation of energy, energy can neither be created nor destroyed. In other words, energy does not appear out of anywhere and disappears into nothing. It transforms from one form into another.

Consider a spring as an example. When it is compressed or extended, the spring stores elastic potential energy. When released, the spring oscillates, and the potential energy is converted into kinetic energy.

Types of Energy Transformation

As mentioned before, energy can transform from one form into another. Below are the types of energy that one can observe in everyday life.

Mechanical Energy (including kinetic energy and potential energy)
Chemical Energy
Electrical Energy
Thermal Energy or Heat Energy
Sound Energy
Light Energy or Radiant Energy
Nuclear Energy
Solar Energy

Energy Transformation Examples

Here are some examples of energy transformation in daily life.

An electric fan, blender, and washing machine consist of an electric motor that converts electrical energy into kinetic energy
Electric iron, toaster, and stove convert electrical energy into thermal energy
An electric generator converts mechanical energy into electrical energy
A television converts electrical energy into sound energy and light energy
A light bulb converts electrical energy into thermal energy and light energy
A hairdryer converts electrical energy into thermal energy and sound energy
The human body digests food and converts chemical energy into mechanical energy enabling muscles to perform work
A campfire burns wood and converts chemical energy into thermal energy and light energy
Automobiles use fuel and convert chemical energy into mechanical energy
The sun transforms nuclear energy into light energy and thermal energy
Lightning converts electrical energy into light energy, heat energy, and sound energy
Rubbing hands together converts kinetic energy into thermal energy
Flashlight converts electrical energy into light energy
An object speeds up when it falls. Its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy
A hydroelectric dam converts gravitational potential energy into electrical energy
A bicycle dynamo converts mechanical energy into electrical energy
A firecracker transforms chemical potential energy into sound energy and light energy
A thermoelectric generator is a device that converts thermal energy into electrical energy
Radio transforms electrical energy into sound energy
The kinetic energy carried by the wind rotates a windmill to produce electrical energy
An electrolytic cell converts electrical energy into chemical energy, whereas a voltaic or galvanic cell converts chemical energy into electrical energy

FAQs

Q.1. Which energy transformation occurs after a skydiver reaches terminal velocity?

Ans. When a skydiver reaches terminal velocity, the potential energy is converted into thermal energy.

Q.2. What energy transformation occurs in a hot air balloon?

Ans. A hot air balloon uses a propane burner to convert chemical energy into thermal energy. The hot air inside the balloon is less dense than the cold air outside. As a result, hot air rises and pushes the balloon upwards, gaining potential energy.

Q.3. What is the difference between energy transfer and energy transformation?

Ans. Energy transfer refers to the movement of energy from one place to another. Energy transformation refers to the energy change from one form to another.

Q.4. What energy transformation takes place when a person lifts a chair?

Ans. When a person lifts a chair, chemical energy is transformed into mechanical energy.

References
- 1. Energy Conversion – Solarschools.net
  2. Energy Transformations – Energyeducation.ca
  3. Energy Transformation – Accessdl.state.al.us
  4. Types of Energy and Energy Transformation – Jasonsclassroom.com