3.1: Energy Conversion Devices

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In Chapter 1, we saw that energy can be transformed from one form to another, and during this conversion, all the energy that we put into a device comes out. However, all the energy that we put in may not come out in the desired form.

For example, as depicted in Figure 3.1.1, we put electrical energy into a bulb and the bulb produces light (which is the desired form of output from a bulb), but we also get heat from the bulb (undesired form of energy from an electric bulb).

Figure 3.1.1. Electrical energy conversion to light and heat

Therefore, energy flow into and out of any energy conversion device can be summarized in Figure 3.1.2 below.

Figure 3.1.2: Energy flow diagram for an energy conversion device

When all forms of energy coming out of an energy conversion device are added up, it will be equal to the energy that is put into a device. Energy output must be equal to the input. This means that energy can not be destroyed or created. It can only change its form.

In the case of an electric bulb, the amount of electrical energy put into a bulb equals the amount of light energy (desirable form) plus the heat energy that comes out of the bulb (undesirable form).

Additional Information

Say you go to the mall with $100 and you come back with only $10. You need to account for the $90 that was spent. After thinking about it, you come up with the following list:

Gas ($15); Sandwich, fries, and a drink ($8); Lost ($5); New clothes ($62)

So you spent $62 on something useful - the clothes - but you spent additional money for other things that were necessary for your trip to the mall.