Efficiency and Heat Transfer

This section explores efficiency calculations and the mechanisms of heat transfer through conduction and convection in physics. It provides detailed explanations of how energy moves through different materials.

Definition: Efficiency is calculated as the ratio of useful output energy transfer to total input energy transfer, expressed as a percentage.

Example: In conduction, convection radiation examples, metals have high thermal conductivity while plastics have low thermal conductivity.

Highlight: No device is 100% efficient in energy transfer.

Vocabulary: Thermal conductivity determines how quickly energy transfers through a material.

Radiation and Building Efficiency

This section covers radiation as a method of heat transfer and explores practical applications in building efficiency. It also introduces non-renewable energy sources and their implications.

Definition: Radiation is the transfer of heat energy without particles, capable of traveling through a vacuum.

Example: Energy transfer examples in daily life include reducing heat loss in buildings through double-glazed windows and cavity wall insulation.

Highlight: Fossil fuels supply 80% of the world's energy needs but contribute to climate change through CO₂ emissions.