Introduction to energy

Energy is essential to life and all living organisms. The sun, directly or indirectly, is the source of all the energy available on Earth. Our energy choices and decisions impact Earth  natural systems in ways we may not be aware of, so it is essential that we choose our energy sources carefully. The true cost of energy is more than just dollars and cents; there are important economic, political and social factors and consequences to consider as well. 

Energy Powers All Living Systems

Nearly everything eats sunshine – or eats something else that ate sunshine. The Sun is the major source of energy for organisms and the ecosystems of which they are a part. Producers, such as plants and algae, use energy from sunlight to make food energy by combining carbon dioxide and water to form organic matter. This process begins the flow of energy through almost all food webs. 

1. Food is sunshine stored in chemical form. Organisms use the stored energy in food to fuel all living processes. Food is organic molecules that serve as fuel and building material for all organisms. The breakdown of food molecules enables cells to store energy and to carry out the many functions of the cell and therefore the entire organism.
2. Human Energy Use Impacts Natural Systems  Humans rely on sunshine (and stored energy), too. Humans are a part of—not apart from— Earth’s ecosystems. Humans influence energy flow and are modifying the energy balance of Earth’s ecosystems at an increasing rate. 
3.  Energy and Economic Circumstances  Generally, people with lower incomes have less financial influence over where their energy comes from. Similarly, people with higher incomes have greater influence financially over energy choices and, by voting with their dollars, they impact the type of energy available to society as a whole.
4. Energy and Political Factors Governmental structure and power balances, actions taken by politicians, and partisan-based or self-serving actions taken by individuals and groups.
5.  Energy and Social Impacts Energy decisions are influenced by social variables, such as beliefs, values, attitudes and

   knowledge.

Essential Energy Information, Concepts, and Themes

1. Energy flows through food webs in one direction, primarily from the sun to producers then to consumers and, finally, to decomposers.
2. Energy comes in many forms. It can be converted and stored.
3. Energy conservation does not mean decreased quality of life, but often leads to improved quality of life through increased economic and national security, reduced environmental risks, and monetary savings. The way humans use energy has lead to rapid climate change across the planet.
4. Humans harness energy from any available resource and the demand for energy is ever increasing. Earth has limited energy resources. Renewable energy provides countless opportunities for economic growth, job creation, improving quality of life, and much more.

Laws governing energy flow in ecosystem

As such, sun is the ultimate source of all our energy, which caters to the need of our ecosystem. In the interior of the sun, a thermonuclear reaction is continuously going on at a temperature of about 108  K where in hydrogen is converted into helium. This is accompanied by a release of huge amount of energy, which manifests itself as heat and light. 

Observations made from artificial satellites indicate that nearly 30% of the total solar radiation entering our atmosphere is reflected by the earth-atmosphere system. The remaining 70% of the radiation is absorbed by the earth’s atmosphere. Of this 19% is absorbed directly by the atmosphere and the rest by the earth’s surface. The blue and red component (400-500 nm and 600-700 nm band respectively) of solar radiation are strongly absorbed by chlorophyll, the green pigment, present in vegetation and are converted into chemical energy. That is how energy for the ecosystem is trapped.

The energy captured by the autotrophs will never revert back to the sun. Similarly, the energy, which passes to the herbivore, does not revert back to autotrophs and so on. Thus, the flow of solar energy is unidirectional. In an ecosystem, energy is transferred in an orderly sequence.Its immediate implication is that an ecosystem would collapse if the sun stops giving out energy. The second important fact is that at each tropic level energy content decreases progressively. This factor is easily explained by noting that the trapped solar energy is used up in metabolic activity and measured as respiration.

The first laws of thermodynamics deals with the conservation of matter and energy and states that energy cannot be created or destroyed but can only change from one form to another. For example, the energy of visible light is absorbed by green plants through photosynthesis; it is changed into chemical energy stored in the glucose molecules. Almost all living organisms including plants consume glucose in respiration and use the stored chemical energy for their metabolic activity. Some of the energy is dissipated as heat, another form of energy.

The second law of thermodynamics states that some useful energy is converted into unusable waste heat during every energy transformation. This heat energy escapes into the surrounding environment.

The function of ecosystem describes the flow of energy and the cycling of nutrients. This includes the several aspects of an ecosystem,

(i) Energy flow

(ii) Food chain

(iii) Diversity pattern in time and spax

(iv) Nutrient cycles

(v) Development and evolution

(vi) Control

The solar energy is converted into chemical energy through photosynthesis by plants. These green plants are grazed by heterotrophy. This shows not only the chemical energy in the form of carbohydrates, fats and proteins but a host of other nutrients are transferred into herbivores. Such a process continues up to the decomposer level through the carnivores.

The two ecological processes of energy flow and mineral cycling involving interaction between the physico-chemical environment and the biotic communities may be considered the heart of the ecosystem dynamics. In an ecosystem, energy flows in non-cyclic manner (unidirectional) from sun to the decomposers via producers and macro-consumers (herbivores and carnivores) whereas minerals keep on moving in a cyclic manner.

Solar Energy –> Producer (autotrophs) –> Consumer (herbivores) –> Consumer (carnivores) –> Consumer (higher levels of carnivores)

Importance of energy in human life

Energy is fundamental to human life and civilisation, playing a critical role in virtually every aspect of our existence. Here are some key reasons why energy is important in human life:

BASIC SURVIVAL

Energy is essential for meeting basic human needs such as heating, cooling, cooking, and lighting. Access to energy sources like electricity and fuel is crucial for maintaining comfortable living conditions and ensuring health and well-being, especially in extreme climates.

FOOD PRODUCTION

Energy is required for agricultural activities, including planting, irrigation, harvesting, and transportation of crops. Machinery powered by energy sources such as diesel fuel and electricity enables large-scale farming, improving food security and supply chains.

INDUSTRIALISATION AND ECONOMIC GROWTH

Energy is a key driver of economic development and industrialization. It powers factories, machinery, and transportation systems, enabling the production and distribution of goods and services. Access to affordable and reliable energy sources is essential for fostering economic growth, creating jobs, and improving living standards.

TRANSPORTATION

Energy is indispensable for transportation, powering vehicles, ships, trains, and aircraft. Fossil fuels like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel are primary sources of energy for transportation, facilitating mobility and trade on a global scale.

COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Energy powers communication and information technology infrastructure, including telecommunications networks, data centers, and digital devices. Electricity is essential for operating computers, smartphones, internet servers, and other electronic devices that enable connectivity and access to information.

HEALTHCARE SERVICES

Energy is critical for providing healthcare services, including lighting hospitals, running medical equipment, and refrigerating vaccines and medications. Reliable energy access is essential for delivering medical care, particularly in remote and underserved areas.

EDUCATION

Energy is essential for supporting educational activities, powering schools, classrooms, and electronic learning tools. Access to electricity enables students to study after dark, access digital learning resources, and engage in distance education programs.

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

Energy plays a crucial role in environmental conservation and sustainability efforts. Transitioning to renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate climate change, and protect natural ecosystems.

In summary, energy is a foundational element of human civilization, supporting our basic needs, driving economic development, enabling technological innovation, and enhancing our quality of life. Ensuring universal access to clean, affordable, and sustainable energy is essential for building a more equitable and resilient society.

Energy production and its implications on the environment

ENERGY PRODUCTION

Energy production refers to the process of generating energy in various forms for human use. It involves harnessing natural resources or utilising technology to convert one form of energy into another. Here are some common methods of energy production:

FOSSIL FUEL

COAL: Coal is mined and burned to produce heat, which is used to generate steam to drive turbines in power plants, producing electricity.

OIL:  Crude oil is refined into various petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, which are used for transportation and electricity generation.

NATURAL GAS : Natural gas is extracted from underground reservoirs and burned to produce heat or used as a fuel for electricity generation, heating, and industrial processes.

RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES

SOLAR ENERGY : Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity through photovoltaic cells. Solar energy can also be used for heating water and space heating through solar thermal systems.

WIND ENERGY: Wind turbines capture kinetic energy from the wind and convert it into electricity through the rotation of blades connected to generators.

HYDROPOWER: Hydroelectric power plants harness the energy of flowing water to generate electricity. Water flow is used to turn turbines connected to generators.

BIOMASS:  Biomass energy is produced from organic materials such as wood, agricultural residues, and municipal solid waste, which are burned or converted into biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel for heat and electricity generation.

NUCLEAR ENERGY

Nuclear power plants use nuclear fission reactions to generate heat, which is used to produce steam to drive turbines and generate electricity. Uranium fuel rods undergo controlled chain reactions to release energy.

GEOTHERMAL ENERGY

Geothermal power plants harness heat from the Earth's interior to generate electricity. Steam or hot water from underground reservoirs is used to drive turbines connected to generators.

TIDAL AND WAVE ENERGY

Tidal and wave energy capture the kinetic energy of ocean tides and waves to generate electricity. Tidal barrages, tidal turbines, and wave energy converters are some of the technologies used for this purpose.

Energy production is essential for meeting human needs, powering economies, and supporting modern lifestyles. However, the environmental impacts of energy production, including air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and greenhouse gas emissions, highlight the importance of transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.

Some key environmental implications associated with different methods of energy production:

FOSSIL FUELS

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change and global warming.

Air Pollution: Fossil fuel combustion emits pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter, leading to air pollution, smog formation, and respiratory health problems.

Water Pollution: Fossil fuel extraction and processing can contaminate water bodies through spills, leaks, and runoff, harming aquatic ecosystems and affecting drinking water quality.

Habitat Destruction: Mining and drilling for fossil fuels can result in habitat destruction, ecosystem disruption, and loss of biodiversity, particularly in sensitive ecosystems like forests and wetlands.

RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES

Land Use and Habitat Impact: Large-scale deployment of renewable energy infrastructure may require land conversion and habitat alteration, impacting wildlife habitats and biodiversity.

Visual and Aesthetic Impacts: Some renewable energy installations, such as wind farms and solar arrays, may alter the visual landscape and affect scenic beauty, particularly in natural or rural areas.

Water Use: Hydropower and biomass energy production can require significant water use, potentially impacting local water resources and aquatic ecosystems.

Material Use and Waste: Manufacturing and disposal of renewable energy equipment can generate waste and require the extraction of raw materials, which may have environmental impacts if not managed properly.

NUCLEAR SOURCES

Radioactive Waste: Nuclear power generation produces radioactive waste that requires careful handling, storage, and disposal to prevent environmental contamination and public health risks.

Nuclear Accidents: Accidents at nuclear power plants can result in catastrophic releases of radioactive materials, causing long-term environmental damage and health consequences.

Uranium Mining: Extracting uranium for nuclear fuel can have environmental impacts, including habitat destruction, water pollution, and radiation exposure for workers and nearby communities.

BIOFUELS

Land Use Change: Large-scale production of biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel, can lead to land use change, deforestation, and habitat conversion, affecting biodiversity and carbon storage in ecosystems.

Competition with Food Production: Growing biofuel feedstocks may compete with food crops for land, water, and resources, potentially impacting food security and agricultural practices.

Overall, the environmental implications of energy production highlight the importance of transitioning to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources and improving energy efficiency to mitigate environmental degradation, address climate change, and protect natural ecosystems and human health.

Role of energy in development of nation

Energy plays a pivotal role in the development of a nation across various sectors, contributing to economic growth, social progress, and environmental sustainability. 

ECONOMIC GROWTH

 Energy is a fundamental driver of economic development, powering industries, businesses, and infrastructure. Access to affordable and reliable energy sources enables manufacturing, construction, transportation, and other economic activities that generate wealth, create jobs, and stimulate investment.

INDUSTRIALISATION 

Energy is essential for industrial processes, providing heat, electricity, and power for machinery and equipment. Industries such as manufacturing, mining, and agriculture rely on energy inputs to produce goods and services efficiently and competitively in the global market.

INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

 Energy is critical for building and maintaining essential infrastructure such as roads, bridges, railways, airports, and utilities. Construction activities require energy for machinery, transportation, and materials production, facilitating urbanization and improving living standards.

TRANSPORTATION

Energy is indispensable for transportation systems, powering vehicles, ships, trains, and aircraft. Access to affordable and efficient transportation fuels enables mobility, trade, and connectivity, facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services within and across borders.

ELECTRICITY ACCESS

 Reliable access to electricity is fundamental for modern living, supporting lighting, heating, cooling, communication, education, healthcare, and entertainment. Electrification initiatives improve quality of life, enhance productivity, and reduce poverty by enabling households, businesses, and communities to access essential services and opportunities.

HEALTHCARE AND EDUCATION

 Energy is essential for providing healthcare services, powering hospitals, clinics, medical equipment, and refrigeration for vaccines and medications. Similarly, energy supports educational activities by providing lighting, heating, and electricity for schools, libraries, and digital learning resources, improving educational outcomes and human capital development.

INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY

Energy innovation drives technological advancements and scientific research across various fields, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and clean technologies. Investing in research and development of energy technologies fosters innovation, enhances competitiveness, and promotes sustainable development.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

While energy production and consumption can have environmental impacts, transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and promoting renewable energy deployment can mitigate environmental degradation, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote environmental sustainability.

In summary, energy is a cornerstone of national development, underpinning economic prosperity, social well-being, and environmental stewardship. Ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy is essential for advancing the development goals of nations and improving the quality of life for all citizens.