Question

Energy degradation takes place in the energy transformations which occur in the generation of electrical power. Explain what is meant in this context by energy degradation.

Answer 1

The degradation of energy is the loss of useful energy: energy is conserved in changes, but tends to be transformed into thermal energy, which is a less usable form of energy.

Step-by-step explanation:

Some forms of energy can be transformed into others. In these transformations, energy degrades, loses quality. In any transformation, part of the energy is converted into heat or heat energy.

Any type of energy can be completely transformed into heat; but, this cannot be completely transformed into another type of energy. It is said, then, that heat is a degraded form of energy. Are examples:

- The electrical energy, when going through a resistance.

- Chemical energy, in the combustion of some substances.

- Mechanical energy, by shock or friction.

Therefore, the Yield is defined as the ratio (in% percent) between the useful energy obtained and the energy contributed in a transformation.

R = ( useful energy / total energy) * 100

where R is the yield