Concept Explanations

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Term/Concept

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Definition/Explanation

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Video

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Energy Density

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Energy stored per unit volume in a fuel.

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Video 8.1.1

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Specific Energy

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Energy stored per unit mass in a fuel.

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Video 8.1.1

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Renewable energy source

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An energy source that is either continually generated or can be replenished in a relatively short amount of time (on the scale of a human lifetime).

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Video 8.1.1

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Secondary energy source

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An energy source that results from the transformation of a primary energy source.

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Video 8.1.1

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Fossil Fuel Power Station Energy Transformation Order

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chemical → thermal → kinetic → electrical

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Video 8.1.3

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Control Rods’ Role in a Nuclear Fission Power Station

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To absorb neutrons, so it is made of a material that is a good absorber of neutrons. Control rods regulate reaction rate.

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Video 8.1.4

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Moderator’s Role in a Nuclear Fission Reactor

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To slow down neutrons.

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Video 8.1.4

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Pumped Storage Hydroelectric System Energy Changes and Operation

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• The potential energy of the water is converted into the kinetic energy of the moving turbines which is then converted into electrical energy.
• The idea of such a system is to pump water back to the upper reservoir when demand is low (and electricity is cheaper, for instance during the night) and then produce electrical energy when demand is high (and electricity is more expensive, for instance, during the day).

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Video 8.1.5

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Photovoltaic Cell

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Converts solar energy into electrical energy

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Video 8.1.7

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Solar Heating Panel

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Converts solar energy into thermal energy.

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Video 8.1.7

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