Class 10 Science Chapter 9 Notes: Sources of Energy
Energy is an essential part of our daily life. From lighting our homes to running machines and vehicles, energy is required everywhere. In this chapter, we will explore the different sources of energy, their uses, advantages, disadvantages, and their impact on the environment.
What is Energy?
Energy is the capacity to do work. It exists in many forms like heat, light, chemical, mechanical, and electrical energy. We get energy from different sources like coal, petrol, wind, sunlight, water, etc.
Types of Sources of Energy
The sources of energy are mainly divided into two categories:
- Renewable sources of energy
- Non-renewable sources of energy
Renewable Sources of Energy
These sources can be used again and again. They do not get exhausted easily and are environment-friendly. Examples:
- Solar Energy
- Wind Energy
- Hydro Energy (Water)
- Biomass Energy
- Geothermal Energy
- Tidal Energy
Advantages of Renewable Energy
1. Unlimited Supply: These sources are naturally replenished.
2. Eco-friendly: They do not pollute the environment.
3. Sustainable: Best for long-term use.
4. Low Operational Cost: After installation, the cost of use is low.
Disadvantages of Renewable Energy
1. High Initial Cost: Setup and installation are expensive.
2. Location Dependent: Not available everywhere.
3. Unreliable: Depends on weather and time.
Non-Renewable Sources of Energy
These sources are limited in nature and will exhaust after some time. They also cause pollution. Examples:
- Coal
- Petroleum
- Natural Gas
- Nuclear Energy (Uranium)
Advantages of Non-Renewable Energy
1. High Energy Output: Gives large amounts of energy.
2. Easy to Transport: Oil and gas can be easily transported.
3. Established Technology: Widely used and well-developed.
Disadvantages of Non-Renewable Energy
1. Pollution: Causes air, water, and land pollution.
2. Global Warming: Releases greenhouse gases like COâ‚‚.
3. Limited Resources: Will get exhausted soon.
4. Harmful Waste: Nuclear waste is dangerous.
Characteristics of an Ideal Source of Energy
An ideal source of energy should:
- Give a large amount of energy
- Be easily available
- Be easy to store and transport
- Be cost-effective
- Cause no pollution
Conventional Sources of Energy
These are commonly used sources for a long time:
- Fossil Fuels (Coal, Oil, Natural Gas)
- Hydropower (Dams)
- Wood
Non-Conventional Sources of Energy
These are modern and alternative sources of energy:
- Solar Energy
- Wind Energy
- Geothermal Energy
- Biogas
- Tidal Energy
Solar Energy
Sun is the biggest source of energy. Solar panels are used to convert sunlight into electricity using the photovoltaic effect.
Uses: Cooking, lighting, water heating, electricity generation.
Wind Energy
Wind turbines convert wind energy into mechanical or electrical energy.
Used in: Wind farms to produce electricity.
Hydropower
Electricity generated from moving water is called hydroelectric power. Dams are built on rivers to store water.
Advantages: Clean, renewable, no pollution.
Biomass and Biogas
Biomass is plant and animal waste. It can be converted into biogas by anaerobic digestion.
Biogas is used for: cooking, lighting, and small-scale power generation.
Geothermal Energy
Heat energy from within the earth is called geothermal energy. Hot springs and geysers are natural sources.
Tidal and Wave Energy
Energy generated by the movement of tides and ocean waves.
Clean but costly and needs advanced technology.
Nuclear Energy
Energy released during nuclear fission of uranium is used to generate electricity.
Very powerful, but produces radioactive waste.
Important Questions Expected in Exams
- What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable sources of energy?
- Write the characteristics of an ideal source of energy.
- Explain the working of a biogas plant.
- Write advantages and disadvantages of nuclear energy.
- How is hydropower generated?
- What are the advantages of using solar energy?
Conclusion
We must use energy resources wisely. Non-renewable sources will not last forever, and they pollute our environment. So, we should promote the use of clean and green energy sources like solar and wind energy. This will help us save the planet for future generations.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only and follows the Class 10 CBSE syllabus. The content is simplified for easy understanding and does not replace official textbooks or academic advice.
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