Question

Which of the following shows the correct sequence of energy flow, as the different types of energy are converted from one type to the other in each stage of the process?

a) Solar energy → Chemical energy → Mechanical energy → Heat energy
b) Heat energy → Chemical energy → Solar energy → Mechanical energy
c) Mechanical energy → Solar energy → Chemical energy → Heat energy
d) Chemical energy → Solar energy → Heat energy → Mechanical energy

Answer 1

The correct sequence of energy conversion is solar energy → chemical energy → mechanical energy → heat energy, which reflects the transformation of energy in processes such as photosynthesis and physical activities, with photovoltaic cells specifically converting solar energy into electrical energy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question pertains to the sequence of energy flow and its conversion from one type to another in different stages of a process. The correct sequence that explains this energy transformation is solar energy → chemical energy → mechanical energy → heat energy, which corresponds to option (a). In the context of photosynthesis, plants convert solar energy into chemical energy, which is stored within the chemical bonds of glucose molecules. This chemical energy can later be converted into mechanical energy during consumption by organisms that utilize this energy for physical activities. Finally, some of this mechanical energy is converted to heat energy as a byproduct of these processes.

In the specific case of a photovoltaic cell, solar energy is transformed into electrical energy, which can be harnessed for various applications, including running electric motors.