Final answer:
Chemical energy is directly converted into electrical energy in an electrochemical cell, such as a battery, where redox reactions occur. Solar cells convert solar energy to electrical energy, and CSP systems indirectly convert solar energy to electricity using steam and turbines.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chemical energy is converted directly into electrical energy in an electrochemical cell. Such devices can either convert chemical energy to electrical energy or vice versa. A battery is a common example of an electrochemical cell that we use in everyday life for this energy conversion. The process is driven by oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions that enable the movement of electrons, which can then be harnessed as electrical energy. This electrical energy can be used immediately or stored for later use.
In the case of solar cells, solar energy is directly converted into electrical energy via the photovoltaic effect, where semiconductors transfer electrons to create a current. Another indirect method of energy conversion is through concentrating solar power (CSP) systems. CSP uses parabolic mirrors to focus sunlight onto a conductor, heating water to produce steam. The steam powers a turbine, creating electricity.