Question

Almost all forms of energy that we use come, directly or indirectly, from the sun. Explain how solar energy from the sun is converted into the form in each of the energy source listed below:

1)Fossil fuels
2)Hydroelectric
3)Wind.

Answer 1

Solar energy from the sun is converted into various forms of energy such as fossil fuels, hydroelectric power, and wind power. Fossil fuels are formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals that captured solar energy. Hydroelectric power is generated using the sun's heat in the water cycle, and wind power is indirectly derived from the sun's energy through the creation of wind.

Step-by-step explanation:

Solar energy from the sun is converted into various forms of energy in different ways:

1. Fossil fuels: Fossil fuels, such as coal and petroleum, are formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals that lived millions of years ago. These organisms captured solar energy through photosynthesis and stored it in their tissues. Over time, the heat and pressure in the Earth's crust transformed these organic remains into fossil fuels. When we burn fossil fuels, we release the stored solar energy.
2. Hydroelectric: Solar energy plays a role in the water cycle. The sun's heat causes evaporation of water from oceans and other water bodies. This evaporated water forms clouds and eventually falls as precipitation to higher elevations, such as mountains. The gravitational potential energy of this water is then converted into kinetic energy as it flows downhill in rivers. Hydroelectric power plants use turbines to convert the kinetic energy of moving water into electricity.
3. Wind: The sun's heat causes the atmosphere to warm unevenly, creating air pressure differences. Air moves from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure, creating wind. Wind turbines capture the kinetic energy of moving air and convert it into electricity. So, the sun's energy is indirectly responsible for wind power.