Page 1: Primary and Secondary Energy Sources

This page introduces fundamental concepts in energy resources and their classification. Primary fuels are defined as raw energy sources that can be directly harnessed from the environment, while secondary fuels are those produced through conversion of primary sources.

Definition: Primary fuels are energy sources that can be directly harnessed from the environment, such as coal that can be burned for heat.

Example: Secondary fuels include electricity generated from fossil fuels, though the conversion process is not 100% efficient.

Vocabulary: Renewable resources are defined as resources that can be reformed relatively quickly, including solar, wind, water, wood, and geothermal sources.

The page also details common ways energy is wasted in daily life, including:

Highlight: Key energy waste factors include leaving appliances on standby, excessive water usage, food transportation distances, and unnecessary use of air conditioning.

The section concludes with a detailed examination of fossil fuels, particularly focusing on coal and oil extraction methods and their environmental impacts.

Quote: "Deep mining is labour intensive, therefore relatively expensive, while open cast mining is mechanized and typically more economically viable."